Casaretti 'La Nogara' Bardolino Classico, Veneto 2021

Stefano Rossi and his brother Giammaria are the third-generation to work their family’s estate, which has been growing vines on the glacial hillsides of Lake Garda since 1911. Farming organically, the brothers grow and hand-harvest the traditional grapes of the area (Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, Molinara, and Garganega) to create lip-smacking Bardolino Classico and Chiaretto (the local name for rosé). The La Nograra is from the historic vineyard area of Bardolino, and the Corvina (70%), Rondinella (25%), and a small bit of Sangiovese are fermented traditionally on the skins with 10 day maceration, then aged for 6 months in stainless steel. The result is a striking ruby red hue, with a full, fruity fragrance.

These are easy-going wines to drink anytime, with anything — complex enough for conversation and unfussy enough for a picnic in the sun. We always say “what grows together goes together”, so think about uncomplicated and ingredient-focused Italian cuisine- in the Veneto, pasta is not the star- so think 

Risotto and Polenta, served with beef stew (or get very Veronese and try it with braised donkey or horse), pasta e fagioli, and duck breast. Or keep it easy and get a pizza!

-Simi Grewal