Located north of Venice, in the foothills of the Dolomites, lies the Prosecco wine region, home to Italys favorite sparkling wines. Just as with Champagne, true Prosecco must come from this specific region, with the most sought after producers located between the towns of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene. A beautiful area in which to relax and enjoy the Italian countryside, cycling through some of the most lovely vineyards in Europe, and enjoying a well-deserved post-ride aperitif.
Here are 5 highlights of any tour of this magical region.
A wine tasting at Enoteca Veneta
Located in Conegliano, this wine bar is affiliated with the famed Scuola Enoteca (Wine College), where many a famous wine maker in Italy got their start. This is a wonderful place to learn about prosecco, how it is produced, and try the various versions – from the driest, brut, to extra dry and dry. You can also try many other wines produced in Northern Italy, including some little known DOCs like Malanotte di Piave (a robust red from Raboso), or the famed Amarone.
An afternoon snack at Osteria Senza Oste
This osteria without a host is located next to the winery Col Vetoraz, high on a hilltop in Valdobbiadene. Here, you will find a small stone house stocked with cheeses, salami, bread, and other regional specialities. Enjoy a snack, accompanied, of course, with some prosecco as you delight in a spectacular view of the surrounding hills, covered with terraced vineyards. The whole operation works on the honor system, where you simply leave your payment when you are finished.
A ride through the hills of Valdobbiadene
Small family-owned farms, a bucolic rural setting, grape vines covering every inch of hillside, clinging seemingly precariously to the steep slopes. Every once in a while, you catch a glimpse of a farmer carefully tending his vines by hand. A slower pace of life. Biking through this area is the perfect way to join in the local lifestyle, as you will fit right in with the many local cyclists enjoying the great outdoors.
A visit to a Prosecco producer
There is no better place to appreciate the art of Prosecco than from the producers themselves. Many have been making these wines for generations, and all share a passion for their craft. One of my favorites to visit is Col del Lupo, just outside of Vidor. Their vineyards are sought-after by many a photographer looking for that picture-perfect vineyard. And their prosecco is just as lovely!
A night in Asolo, The Pearl of Treviso
The hilltop town of Asolo, just a bit west of Valdobbiadene, is one of the most picturesque towns in all of Italy. Home to luminaries such as Robert Barrett Browning and actress Eleanor Duse, this town is also known as the City of a Hundred Horizons, due to the spectacular view in all directions. Stay at Villa Cipriani (yes, the same family as the famous hotels in Venice), or Albergo al Sole, elegant five star hotels right in the center of Asolo.
