Valpolicella Wine Tasting and Lunch at Vantorosso winery in Marano di Valpolicella

Your experience at Vantorosso begins in Marano di Valpolicella, where you'll be welcomed by either the owner, Vanni Pasquali, or the winery's sommelier, Anna. Your visit starts with a tour of the historic winery, dating back to 1600, where you'll learn about the local Corvina grape and the traditional production methods of the region.

After the tour, you'll settle in the tasting room or on the porch, depending on the weather, for a guided tasting and lunch.

You will taste six of the estate's wines:

- Vanni IGT Bianco, white: a lively, fragrant white made from native Veronese grapes, crisp and refreshing.

- Valpolicella Classico DOC: a bright and approachable red, with juicy red-cherry notes; the fresh, everyday soul of Valpolicella.

- Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore DOC: this red is often called the "baby Amarone," re-fermented on Amarone skins for extra body, warmth and a touch of spice.

- Vanni Rosso Veronese IGT: the estate's signature red, a free-spirited Veronese blend with character and depth beyond the classic appellation rules.

- Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG: the red crown jewel of the region, crafted from dried grapes, rich, full-bodied and velvety, with hints of dried fruit and chocolate.

- Recioto della Valpolicella DOCG: this sweet red is the ancestor of Amarone and Valpolicella's historic dessert wine, lusciously sweet with candied cherry and a smooth, elegant finish.

These are paired with a full Veronese lunch. You'll have a choice of a first course, either paccheri with tomato and basil or a classic Amarone risotto. This is followed by a platter of cured meats and cheeses from the Veronese hills, served with artisanal giardiniera. The meal concludes with a traditional Sbrisolona cake, completing your exploration of Veronese culinary traditions.