Camatta
In the classic Valpolicella zone, high up in the municipality of Marano di Valpolicella (Verona), at around 350 meters above sea level, lies the small 3-hectare estate CàMatta, run by Alessandro Lonardi.
Trained as an agronomist and passionate about Recioto, Alessandro is the first generation to bottle the family's produce, having worked alongside his grandparents since 2007. He launched his first label in the 2012 vintage, converting the vineyards to organic farming in 2016 (certified in 2019).
He works exclusively with the Veronese pergola (which offers protection from sun, hail and deer!) and is fortunate to own vineyards dating back to 1964, as well as more recent plantings from 1987 and 2015. He tends to a total of eight vineyards, all in Marano, particularly in the crus of Tenda (exposed and warmer) and Purano, fresher thanks to its higher elevation. One of the most prized local varieties for Recioto production is the Rebo grape, rich in colour and sugar!
Alessandro produces 7 labels: Valpolicella and Valpolicella Superiore, Ripasso, Amarone, Amarone Riserva, Recioto and a Rosso IGT.
My selection
These labels bring the elegance of Valpolicella and Alessandro's artisanal dedication to the glass.
If it's your first time, I recommend I Mostacci Valpolicella Superiore: a full-bodied red born from grapes dried for 40 days, combining velvety softness with intense aromas of sour cherry.
Looking for something truly special? Try the Recioto I Monti, a sweet passito red that releases notes of chocolate, vanilla and violet. Perfect paired with dry pastries, chocolate or blue cheeses.
Salute!
