Story: Ca' Rugate | Veneto

Ca'Rugate: The combination of tradition and innovation
Nestled in the gentle slopes of the Colle Rugate hills, the Ca'Rugate winery embodies centuries of grape cultivation. The family's picturesque old winery, which lies in the middle of the vineyards, is a testament to its historical roots. The 30 hectares of vineyards, which are mainly planted with white grape varieties, are located in the Monteforte d'Alpone region, in the hilly heart of the Soave Classico. In 2000, after a painstaking search, a further 20 hectares of red vines were acquired in Montecchia di Crosara, which lies in the traditional Valpolicella area. It is worth noting that the vineyards in the classic Soave and Valpolicella regions, nestled between the hills, are generally inherited and rarely sold.

Owner Michele Tessari
The oenologist Michele Tessari has paid particular attention to the Garganega grape variety, which is typical of the region and the terroir, for his white wines. His experience with the autochthonous red grape varieties Corvina, Rondinella and Corvinone was added with the new acquisition. Thanks to consistent thinning of the vines, special short pruning and a keen interest in innovation in cultivation methods, Ca' Rugate produces fine white and red wines. They are characterized by their balance, integrity, consistency and distinct aromas and flavours. The vineyards have an ideal exposure to the sun. There is a special microclimate. The composition of the soils, which are all of volcanic origin, decisively favors the growth of great wines.

The Soave Classico
The Soave of the house is made from 100% Garganega grapes, which guarantees a complex and soft wine. It is also one of the great, classic and typical white wines of northern Italy. It owes its reputation to the precious and autochthonous Garganega grape. The name Classico means that this wine thrives in the oldest growing region, mostly in the hills and on black volcanic soil. The grape produces fragrant, fresh, fruity and at the same time mild wines with a light yellow color. The typical fruit acidity and moderate alcohol content make this wine very appealing to Central European wine lovers.

The Valpolicella terroir
The terroir of the Valpolicella region is characterized by a harmonious interplay of soil composition, sunlight and microclimate. The traditional cultivation methods contribute to the production of exceptional red wines, with indigenous grape varieties such as Corvina, Rondinella and Corvinone being used in particular.

The Soave terroir
Known for its Garganega grape, the Soave terroir is the epitome of elegance and finesse. Nestled in the hills, the volcanic soils give the wines unmistakable aromas, while the region's microclimate ensures optimal ripening of the grapes, resulting in wines of remarkable balance and complexity.

"A spectacular record! There is certainly a super terroir behind it, and certainly the winemaker also understands a lot about his daily business, one thinks in view of such success across the board. However, the current bottle elite of Ca' Rugate comes from two fundamentally different cultivation zones, namely Soave and Valpolicella, and on top of that we have to do with dry wines as well as sweet wines. Now, at the latest, it becomes clear that the second idea is correct and that only Michele Tessari, the good spirit of this family winery, with his grandiose knowledge of the area and its wines, can bring all this about'. - Gambero Rosso

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

1. which grape varieties are mainly grown at Ca'Rugate?
Ca'Rugate mainly grows Garganega for its white wines and indigenous red varieties such as Corvina, Rondinella and Corvinone.

2. what characterizes the Soave Classico wines from Ca'Rugate?
Ca'Rugate's Soave Classico wines are made exclusively from 100% Garganega grapes and offer a complex and velvety texture that embodies the essence of northern Italian white wines.

3. what factors contribute to the exceptional quality of Ca'Rugate wines?
The combination of ideal sun exposure, volcanic soil conditions, careful vineyard management and a commitment to innovative winemaking techniques contribute to the exceptional quality and character of Ca'Rugate wines.

4. how does Ca'Rugate preserve the traditional heritage of viticulture in the region while embracing innovation?
Ca'Rugate preserves the traditional heritage of the region by maintaining the indigenous grape varieties and traditional cultivation methods while introducing modern innovations to improve the quality and expression of the wines.

5. where can you experience the essence of Ca'Rugate wines first hand?
Visitors can experience the essence of Ca'Rugate wines by exploring the vineyards, participating in guided tastings and immersing themselves in the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Valpolicella and Soave regions. - Gerardo [TS04/24]