Wine Tastings Venice

Venice, or Venezia, is more than canals and gondolas—it also lies at the heart of one of Italy’s most dynamic wine regions. The surrounding lands of Veneto, stretching from the Adriatic coast to the rolling hills of Valpolicella and Conegliano, offer a rich tapestry of vineyards and traditions. The Venezia DOC itself embraces both red and white grapes, producing elegant wines that reflect the influence of sea breezes, fertile plains, and centuries of viticultural heritage.

Just beyond Venice’s lagoon, wine tourism reveals a landscape of hills, villas, and vineyards. Travelers can explore the UNESCO-listed Prosecco hills, join guided tours through the Euganean Hills, or even take a boat to Mazzorbo, where vines still grow on the lagoon’s islands. Many estates welcome guests for tastings, walks through the vineyards, and pairings that showcase the authentic link between local wines and Venetian culture.

Venetian cuisine is deeply entwined with its wine traditions. The city’s historic bacari serve cicchetti—small plates of seafood, meats, and vegetables—paired with local wines in a lively atmosphere. Beyond the lagoon, traditional dishes like risotto al nero di seppia, bigoli pasta with duck, and farm-fresh produce from the mainland create perfect companions for the crisp whites and structured reds of the Veneto. Modern dining spots, too, are reviving ancient varieties and elevating Venetian gastronomy.

The wines of Venice and its surroundings highlight both indigenous and international grapes. Prosecco, made from Glera, is world-famous for its fresh sparkle.

Within the Venezia DOC, Merlot and Glera dominate plantings, reflecting the balance of still reds and sparkling whites. Together, they create a palette of flavors ranging from crisp and citrusy to bold and velvety.

Veneto’s climate brings variety to its wines and experiences. Warm summers and gentle Adriatic breezes encourage ripeness, while cooler mountain influences preserve acidity and freshness. Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, when vines are lush and villages come alive with festivals. Autumn marks the harvest, filling the hills with color and activity, while winter brings a quieter, contemplative atmosphere for cellar visits and cozy tastings.

A wine journey from Venice can start close to the lagoon, with a visit to vineyards on Mazzorbo Island, then continue inland to the Prosecco hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene. For red wine lovers, Valpolicella offers Amarone and Ripasso experiences paired with rustic countryside cuisine. The Euganean Hills invite travelers to discover volcanic soils and hidden villages. Whether cycling through vineyards, dining at a countryside villa, or enjoying cicchetti by the canals, Venice offers a seamless blend of culture and wine.

Here are the top wineries to visit in Venice:

• Venissa

Here are the best wine tastings to book in Venice:

• Wine tasting with the winemaker on the Vignole Island in Venice
• Venissa: discover the unique wine from the walled vineyard in Venice