In the midst of numerous viticultural zones in a vast region like Veneto, Soave undeniably holds a significant position. Located in the province of Verona, with the Lessini Mountains descending from north to south and the western border marked by the province of Vicenza, this territory has a rich history of winemaking, as evidenced by Roman-era writings. However, it gained particular success in the early 1900s when Soave was already among the best-selling wines in Italy and beyond.
With over 6,500 hectares of vineyards, Soave is one of the most extensive white wine denominations in Italy. Additionally, the region benefits from a unique geomorphological feature: a considerable portion of the vineyards rests on volcanic soils. However, Soave has a dual nature, as limestone soils, equally suitable for producing deep and elegant wines, alternate with the volcanic ones.
The undisputed protagonist of Soave vineyards is the Garganega grape, a native variety cultivated in these areas for centuries, showing some genetic connection with Grecanico, a grape predominantly grown in Sicily. Other grape varieties contributing to Soave include Trebbiano di Soave and Chardonnay, the latter not exceeding 30%.
When talking about Soave today, it's essential to mention the significant zoning work carried out in the last two decades, resulting in the creation of 33 Additional Geographic Units. While this number may seem high, in a denomination with such wide variability, such distinctions are necessary.
Soave Wines with the best value for money in the Berebene 2024 Guide
Here is a list of Soave wines that we have reviewed in the Gambero Rosso's Berebene 2024 guide, each receiving a rating above 90 cents. These excellent wines can be found on supermarket shelves and online for less than 20 euros.
Soave Cl. Campo Vulcano 2022 - I Campi exudes aromas of white pulp fruit and flowers, with a subtle mineral vein waiting to explode. The acidity in the mouth provides momentum and length to a sip that leans more towards elegance than power. The winery is located in Cellore di Illasi, nestled between the hills to the east and the Illasi stream bed to the west. The vineyards extend mainly on the hills, both in the classic Soave area and in eastern Valpolicella.
Soave Cl. Le Battistelle 2021 - Le Battistelle - Le Battistelle presents smoky notes and white and yellow fruit aromas intertwined with a fragrant floral bouquet. This Soave from Le Battistelle has a rich, juicy taste with unstoppable drinkability and, at the same time, character and identity. Captivating. Le Battistelle, one of the most interesting realities in the Soave area, is tucked away in the folds of the hills of Brognoligo.
Soave Cl. Meridies 2022 - Nardello - Nardello's Meridies offers scents reminiscent of ripe yellow fruit, refreshed by beautiful citrus and floral notes. In the mouth, the fullness of the sip is governed by a beautiful acidic push that imparts length and agility to the taste. Federica and Daniele Nardello run the family business on the southern hills of the classic Soave area.
Soave Cl. Monte Carbonare 2021 - Suavia - Suavia takes advantage of the fresh vintage with significant temperature variations to offer an interpretation of great finesse. The aromas are clear and fragrant, with white fruit in the foreground followed by flowers and a shy minerality that will gain importance over the years. Meri, Valentina, and Alessandra have transformed their family business into one of the most interesting realities in Soave.
Soave Cl. Monte Fiorentine 2021 - Ca' Rugate - Ca' Rugate shines for aromatic finesse and gustatory tension, being a white wine of character and finesse. On the nose, it blends immediate sensations of summer fruit that gradually give way to more complex aromatic suggestions of dried flowers, citrus, flint, and spices. All within an elegant tasting framework with great persistence.
Soave Cl. Otto 2022 - Graziano Prà - Graziano Prà's Otto is unmissable, a glass that has everything to be a Veneto bestseller: quality, easy drinkability, fair price, and availability, making it easily accessible. Obtained from over 30 hectares of owned vineyards in the heart of the volcanic hills of Soave, it offers intense exotic and floral notes, refreshed by a subtle citrus vein. The sip is generous and unstoppable.
Soave Sup. Il Casale 2021 - Agostino Vicentini - Agostino Vicentini's Il Casale '21 is excellent, both in terms of quality and price. This Soave does not aim to impress with aromatic intensity but with the behavior of the palate. It is rich, extraordinarily savory, and governed by an acidic push that softens and lengthens the sip.
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