Bardolino
About the wine
Bardolino is a historic red and rosé wine appellation from the morainic hills on the eastern shore of Lake Garda in the province of Verona. Defined by its Mediterranean microclimate and gravelly, deep soils, the wine is primarily crafted from Corvina Veronese and Rondinella grapes. The DOC encompasses several styles, including the standard red, the 'Classico' (from the original, most historic zone), and the celebrated 'Chiaretto'—a delicate, fruity, and sapid rosé produced via short skin contact or the 'salasso' method. Known for its approachable, dry, and harmonious profile, Bardolino is characterized by a distinct freshness and subtle salinity. The production area is divided into three sub-zones: Montebaldo, La Rocca, and Sommacampagna, each reflecting unique topographical influences. The wines are typically light to medium-bodied, emphasizing red berry aromatics and a vibrant, drinkable structure that has defined the region's viticultural identity since the 19th century.
Grape varieties
Production & aging
The production zone is located in the province of Verona, covering the morainic hills east of Lake Garda. It includes the communes of Bardolino, Garda, Lazise, Affi, Costermano, Cavaion Veronese, Torri del Benaco, Caprino Veronese, Rivoli Veronese, Pastrengo, Bussolengo, Sona, Sommacampagna, Castelnuovo del Garda, Peschiera del Garda, and Valeggio sul Mincio. The 'Classico' sub-zone is restricted to the most historic area near the lake.