Zenato winery
Zenato is a distinguished Italian winery located in the heart of the Veneto region, on the shores of Lake Garda. Founded in 1960 by Sergio Zenato, the estate remains family-owned and operated, now led by his wife Carla and their children, Alberto and Nadia. The Zenato family’s mission is to honor the land’s traditions while embracing innovation, producing wines that reflect the unique character of their terroir.
The estate encompasses 95 hectares of vineyards, primarily in two areas: San Benedetto di Lugana, where the white Lugana wines are produced, and the historic Valpolicella region, home to their celebrated reds including Amarone and Ripassa. Zenato’s philosophy centers on a deep respect for the land, sustainable cultivation, and meticulous attention to every phase of production, from the vineyard to the cellar.
In Lugana, Zenato is known for its pioneering work with the Trebbiano di Lugana grape, crafting fresh, mineral-driven white wines that highlight the unique microclimate and glacial soils near Lake Garda. The Lugana San Benedetto and Lugana Riserva Sergio Zenato are flagship expressions, celebrated for their elegance, complexity, and longevity.
In Valpolicella, Zenato’s vineyards are located in the prestigious areas of Sant’Ambrogio and Costalunga. Here, the family cultivates indigenous varieties such as Corvina, Rondinella, and Oseleta. Their Amarone della Valpolicella Classico stands out for its rich, velvety texture and depth, achieved through the traditional appassimento method of drying grapes before fermentation. The Ripassa Valpolicella Superiore, created by refermenting Valpolicella wine on Amarone grape skins, is another signature wine, known for its concentration and aromatic complexity.
Zenato’s winemaking blends tradition with modern technology. Harvesting is done by hand, ensuring careful selection of the best grapes. In the cellar, a combination of stainless steel tanks and oak barrels is used to preserve varietal character and enhance structure and aging potential. The estate is committed to sustainability, employing eco-friendly practices in the vineyard and winery to protect the environment and ensure the health of their vines for future generations.
Beyond their core range, Zenato produces a diverse portfolio including Bardolino, Chiaretto rosé, Merlot, and single-vineyard selections, offering a comprehensive expression of the region’s viticultural heritage. The estate welcomes visitors for guided tours and tastings, sharing the family’s passion and dedication to quality winemaking.
Zenato’s wines have earned international acclaim, consistently receiving high ratings and awards. The family’s deep connection to their land, unwavering pursuit of excellence, and innovative spirit have positioned Zenato as a benchmark for Venetian winemaking, celebrated both in Italy and worldwide. Their commitment to authenticity, sustainability, and the pursuit of quality continues to define the estate’s legacy and inspire wine lovers around the globe.