Winebow Producer Book

Veneto , Italy

Winery Overview The Zenato winery possesses a strong link to the richness of its local history and culture, and continues to develop this connection today. The estate is based in a territory that surrounds Lake Garda, with an extraordinary microclimate that allows for an optimal growing season. Cherishing a ‘frank and simple’ approach to life, Zenato is committed to producing affordable wine of exceptional quality. With a passion for the land and a dedication to vigorous research, innovation and quality improvement, Sergio Zenato strives to eclipse past results, crafting wines that are known for their quality and consistency. Founded in 1960, by Sergio and Carla Zenato, the Zenato winery was originally based on the production of quality wines from an indigenous varietal, Trebbiano di Lugana. Over time, the winery has been passed to Sergio and Carla’s children, who have maintained and expanded upon this vision. Their daughter, Nadia, currently handles the marketing and promotional activity for the company, while their son, Alberto, oversees all aspects of production, from the growing of the vines to the completion of the bottling process. Zenato has also explored another important area of Italian wine production — Valpolicella. It is here that they have dedicated endless efforts to the improvement and success of Amarone production, a wine of noble attributes and prestige. Zenato has entered into international markets and received the highest accolades from the wine industry’s leading experts, praise that reflects the way in which the company operates on a daily basis. Today, Zenato continues to look to the future and invest in development projects based in the areas of Valpolicella and Lugana. Location of Vineyard Lugana—The Santa Cristina Estate Vineyards - In close proximity to the eastern shores of Lake Garda, the Santa Cristina estate comprises 99 acres of vineyards. The area was formed by a dramatic glacial period followed by a marine period that left rich mineral and rock deposits forming the soil base of the area today. The Santa Cristina vineyards enjoy a favorably mild climate, with the lake acting as a sort of natural reservoir of heat, creating a spontaneous balance of various forces of nature: atmosphere, water, currents and, especially, the surrounding mountains. The soil is perfect for growing vines, the Trebbiano di Lugana variety in particular. Valpolicella, Sant’Ambrogio—The Costalunga Estate Vineyards - Historic winemaking in Valpolicella dates back to Roman times, with this rich tradition continuing today. Valpolicella is a succession of gently rolling hills and little valleys between the Adige River and Lake Garda, with the Lissinia mountains to the north and Verona and the Adige to the south. The name appears for the first time in 12th century documents as Valle Policella, a Latin reference to a valley of many (poli) cellars (cella). The prestigious commune of Sant’Ambrogio has elevations of close to 600 feet above sea level, an advantageous attribute in an area so close to the sea with over 50% of the vines enjoying a southern exposure encouraging full ripening. The wines of Sant’Ambrogio age well with excellent structure. It is here that the Zenato family grows grapes for their prestigious Amarone and the stunning 100% Corvina wine called Cresasso. Winemaking Philosophy Today, the winery operates under a philosophy and mission of quality (from the vineyard to the bottle and consumer), passion and tradition (respecting the roots of the territory and local culture). Winery Overview