Near fair Verona, where we lay our scene…
Most famously used as the location for his play Romeo and Juliet, Verona is also positioned at the nexus of some of the most storied wine regions in Italy. With the volcanic hillsides of Soave Classico to the east, Valpolicella to the north and Bardolino to the west, there is no shortage of vinous history surrounding this picturesque city.
Not to be confused with the broader Soave appellation that includes the fertile plains below, Soave Classico has been recognised for centuries for its oenological potential. Among these volcanic hillsides, there are few names that carry a reputation better than Graziano Prà. His focus on terroir expression, longevity and quality have put him at the forefront of the region.
More recently he has expanded his vision to include red wines, purchasing 8Ha of vineyards set high on the calcareous hills of the neighbouring Valpolicella Allargata. Here Graziano applies the same focus on expression of terroir, bringing a sense of savoury minerality to his reds that balances the sometimes overbearing nature of Amarone & Ripasso style wines.
Our partnership with Graziano goes back more than 20 years, and we are proud to continue to represent these exceptional wines in Ontario.
The Wines
2021 Otto Soave Classico – 92 points
“Quite refreshing and mineral with lots of green and white fruit. Stony nectarine and green-apple aromas. Pure and fresh with a textured, medium-bodied palate, showing some mineral and limey fruit . Gastronomic and delicious.” – James Suckling
Retail $28.95 (12 btl/cs)
2020 Staforte Soave Classico – 91 points
“Fruity white with aromas of melon, peaches, lemons and apricots. Medium-bodied, fresh and clean, with a well-balanced finish.” – James Suckling
Retail $47.95 (6 btl/cs)
2020 Monte Grande Soave Classico – 94 points
“The 2020 Soave Classico Monte Grande is so pretty yet slightly understated, with a herbal twang that gives way to orange zests and pretty yellow flowers. This is round yet amazingly fresh and vibrant, with vivid apple tones and hints of chamomile. There’s a lasting florality and staining mix of kiwi and young mango, while also salty and lightly structured. Breathtaking.” – Eric Guido for Vinous.com
Retail $54.95 (6 btl/cs)
2021 Morandina Valpolicella – New Vintage
Bright red colour with hints of purple. The nose opens with aromas of raspberries, flowers and spice, followed by distinct mineral undertones. The palate is bright and fresh with full-flavoured notes of liquorice and herbs. Ideally served slightly chilled. “Valpolicella Morandina is the freshest and most pungent expression of my high-altitude reds.” – Graziano Prà
Retail $36.95 (12 btl/cs)
2016 Morandina Amarone della Valpolicella – 94 points
“A savory and complex expression of Amarone with some dried cherries, red dates, stewed herbs, orange peel, tobacco and white pepper. Some bold green peppercorn, too. A svelte delivery of Amarone with a medium body, showing tobacco, cedar and chocolate on the palate. Long, cedary finish.” – James Suckling
Retail $117.95 (6 btl/cs)
