Pogglio La Noce:  Part of the fun visiting was the driving on a remote dirt road through wooded and steep terrain to get there.  This small winery practices biodynamic farming and produces high quality sangiovese and sangiovese-based blends.   The views from the estate vineyard were memorable as was the flock of geese which served as the welcoming committee.   Lara our host was delightful, and it was a we  enjoyed learning about the winery history, farming, and vinification as we sampled a selection of wines with charcuterie.

Location:  Via Ontignano, Fiesole, Tuscany Italy

Visited on 21 February 2023

Tenuto Sant’Antonio:  The road that takes you here is an adventure on its own, and you are rewarded for the effort.  Corvina is the dominant varietal used for making the Valpolicella and Amarone wines.  Wonderful limestone soils give the wines from this region distinction and character.   Valpolicella comes in many versions such as Classico, Superiore, and Ripasso,  Perhaps Ripasso is the most interesting for having greater body and extraction by re-using Amarone skins in the fermentation.    I was impressed by the Superiore which featured deep ruby color, rose/floral aromas, and juicy cherry with a hint of herbs on the palate.  The 2010 Amarone Reserva was big, powerful, and still drinking fresh.  Summary:  Great property, excellent wines, and a super nice family.

Location:     Via Conte Tragni | 37030 Lavagno (Verona) – ITALY

Visited on 10 February 2023

Cantina Terlan: impressive property with spectacular vistas.  Michael our host (one of the family members) was most gracious.  After a cellar tour, we tasted some impressive older vintage traminers.   Also making an impression were the rich and distinctive sauv blancs.  Volcanic soils, high elevation, and meticulous vineyard management make the white wines of this region the most sought after in all Italy.

Location:  Via Silberleiten 7 | I – 39018 Terlano (BZ)

Visited on 9 February 2023

Signorvino:  We encountered this place walking back to our hotel after a nice day exploring Museums.  It’s actually part of a chain.  In fact, I would say it’s a bit like Starbucks for wine.  There’s a retail store adjacent to the bar.  The wine selection is excellent and good prices too.  We received an additional discount by joining their mailing list.  At 5 p.m. on a Wednesday, it was quite full with a festive atmosphere.  We enjoyed a nice bottle of Primativo for less than 20 Euros.  They offer complementary popcorn which also hit the spot.

Location:  P.za Barberini, 12, 00187 Roma RM, Italy

Date of visit:  1 February 2023