41 / 126
Sansonina
In the mid 1990s, Carla Prospero and her daughter Nadia Zenato acquired a large 18th century farm in
the Sirmione area called Sansonina. With this purchase they accepted a challenge to disprove some
preconceptions. They set about producing exceptional red wine in a zone traditionally known for whites,
while demonstrating that well-structured red wine isn’t necessarily men’s work.
Sansonina, the name given to the impressive 18th century cascina near Sirmione, derives from Samson,
the Biblical judge called upon by God to defeat Israel’s enemies with his superhuman strength. The name
also belonged to a woman who owned the estate centuries ago, nicknamed “Little Samson” for her strong
character. Today, Sansonina maintains this masculine-feminine dualism. The property is located in the
zone that produces Lugana, one of the most famous white wines of the Lombard-Veneto region and by
definition a feminine wine. But Sansonina is also the only vineyard in the area to have old Merlot vines, a
highly valued grape used to make some of the world’s most important red wines. With a typically feminine
combination of determination and sensitivity, Carla and Nadia have succeeded in producing hearty,
powerful and elegant wines.
Lugana DOC
Sansonina Lugana originates in a zone of rolling hills which, thanks to the proximity of Lake Garda, enjoys a
mild, favorable climate. On this land, particularly adapted to vine cultivation, Trebbiano di Lugana has taken
its place as one of the most successful vines in Italy. The wine that results not only typifies the fruit of the
vine and its freshness, but also displays a marked mineral content and a profile of remarkable complexity.
Merlot Veronese IGT
Sansonina is a special project for Carla Zenato and her daughter Nadia. This unique, hand-crafted red is
made entirely from Merlot grapes, which are harvested by hand in early September. The winery’s name
draws from the biblical hero, Samson, who was given superhuman strength. Adding “ina” to a word in
Italian is a diminutive term of endearment. This, Merlot becomes a powerful yet refined “Little Samson.”
WINES OF NORTHERN ITALY
33