Nardello

Nardello is a family winery, 4th generation, producing wine from about 14 hectares in the “Classico” are of the Soave DOC. Siblings Daniele and Federica Nardello run the winery, with Daniele in charge of viticulture and oenology and his sister Federica handling commercial aspects, though as in any family concern, all tasks are shared for the overall success of the firm. The family has grown grapes for many decades, selling in bulk and damigiane, until Daniele, after graduating from his studies (Milano, Conegliano) returned determined to achieve more. The first “Nardello” bottling was in 2000, and it is startling to see (taste) what the two have achieved since then. Their Soave is classic, pure, with outstanding definition; it is a joy to drink. Their vineyard holdings are spread between Monte Zoppega (near Moneforte d’Alpone town) and Monte Tondo (near Soave town), in various parcels affording a multitude of expositions and terroirs. Overall, of course, the terroir is volcanic…which is one reason the hills of the “Soave Classico” can produce such magical wines.

The old winery building in Monteforte d’Alpone was renovated in 2010 and it stands as a testament to the commitment these talented siblings have made to produce wines of quality. An elegant tasting room, filled with history awaits the visitor. Their viticulture is low-­impact with zero use of systemic treatments since 2005. They strive to use as little sulfur as possible in their winemaking. The idea, not a new one but a noble one, is to let the vineyard speak through the wines.

Recently Daniele’s restless nature moved him to seek out vineyards in Valpolicella. We recently tasted in Italy his first effort – a semi-­appassimento Valpolicella from Corvina and Corvinone; the wine was shockingly good. The first vintage should be ready to ship in the near future. Can’t hardly wait.

~ Joe Kotnik