History and territory 

Soave is one of the most well-known and renowned Veneto white wines. The area extends east of the Monti Lessini, where the region’s most popular white wines are produced. The soils where they are grown are unique, as they have ancient origins and are composed of a mixture of volcanic layers of tuff and limestone. The history of this territory dates back to the times of the Longobards, who founded the town of Soave, but the first written testimonies regarding this wine are found in the works of the Roman writer Cassiodorus. What is certain is that over the years the fame of this wine has fluctuated, with its reputation once more being recently re-established, also thanks to improvements in production.

Varieties used and production 

The production of Soave wine comes from the Garganega variety, which must account for at least 70% of the blend, to which 30% Trebbiano di Soave or Chardonnay grapes may be added. This remaining percentage can be composed of up to 5% of other local varieties. Garganega grapes ripen in October and manage to retain extracts and sugars, thanks to their resistant skin. The types of Soave are Soave DOC, Soave Classico DOC, Soave Superiore DOCG and Recioto di Soave DOCG. Soave DOC wines are the base, medium-bodied wines, while Superiore Classico DOCG is produced in the oldest winegrowing area of Soave, i.e. in the municipality of Soave and Monteforte d’Alpone. The Riserva version, on the other hand, must be aged for two years, according to the production protocol. Finally, Recioto di Soave DOCG is a sweet wine, the most prized, so much so that the drying process used for its grapes is protected by the FAO. 

Soave and its characteristics 

Soave DOC is characterised by a straw yellow colour with greenish reflections. Its aroma is intense yet delicate, offering hints of spring flowers, peach and almond. This well-balanced, medium-bodied wine displays a dry, slightly bitter flavour. Superiore wines show a more golden colour than the standard DOC versions and more floral notes on the nose. The flavour is fuller and more intense. Finally, Recioto is sweet and shows firm structure, with a golden colour. The nose offers vibrant fruit aromas, with hints of vanilla. 

The perfect pairing 

Soave goes perfectly with richly-flavoured dishes, and being very versatile, can accompany various courses. Excellent as an aperitif wine, it can accompany light appetisers or fish- and vegetable-based pasta and rice dishes. Another pairing to try is with the region’s traditional vegetable soups. Its more firmly-structured versions, such as the Superiore DOCG, go perfectly with white meats and grilled fish. Finally, the Riservas are excellent with white meats but also with medium-mature cheeses. Basically, you just have to try!