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Veneto, located in the north-east part of Italy, is the 8th largest of Italy’s 20 regions. Its vineyards spread over 90,000 hectares, of which over 35,000 are DOC quality wines. This makes the region of Veneto the number one producer of DOC wines in Italy; of these, 55% are white wines.

Veneto stretches northward to the Alps which protect the region from the sometimes brutal northern European climate, making this moderately-cool temperature ideal for white varieties like Garganega (the main grape for Soave wines). Soave is Italy's most popular white wine varietal.

Veneto’s growers are at the forefront of modernization in winemaking. They have created a high demand in the American and European markets by experimenting with Chardonnays, Cabernets and Pinots, while still nurturing native grape varieties like Prosecco and Verduzzo to attain superiority in their classic wines.

Conegliano, one of Italy’s top wine schools is located in Veneto, which also hosts Italy’s most significant wine fair. Veneto welcomes over 60 million foreigners yearly, making it the number one region for tourists. This is due in no small part to its rich historical, artistic and culinary heritage, although wine tourism surely is a strong draw for thousands.

The climate is amazingly variable: continental in some areas and mild in others; indeed, hills and plains regions see a vast range of rainfall and fog. However, the fluctuating climate has not prohibited the success of Amarone della Valpolicella, a popular contender among red wine enthusiasts.

Learn more about Soave and other “Venetian Native Grape Varieties” at Wednesday’s panel discussion at 2pm.

(Image via Canon d'Oro)