In the embrace of the majestic Dolomite region in Italy, where vineyards stretch across undulating hills, Vignaioli Contrà Soarda weaves a tale that spans centuries. The story unfolds in the late 19th century, when the roots of this esteemed winery first dug deep into the fertile soils, setting the stage for a legacy that transcends time.
At the helm of this vinous odyssey was Giovanni Soarda, a visionary winemaker who recognised the potential of the Dolomite terroir. In the late 1800s, Giovanni planted the seeds of what would become Vignaioli Contrà Soarda drawing inspiration from the symbiotic relationship between the land and the indigenous grape varieties that thrived in this unique landscape.
As the decades unfolded, the winery became an emblem of resilience in the face of historical tumult. The Soarda family weathered the storms of war and economic upheavals, passing down the mantle of winemaking expertise from one generation to the next. The vineyards, like silent custodians of time, witnessed the family’s unwavering commitment to preserving tradition and crafting wines that echoed the essence of the Dolomite terroir.
In the early 21st century, Vignaioli Contrà Soarda embraced a new chapter marked by sustainability and organic viticulture. This paradigm shift was not just a nod to contemporary environmental consciousness but a reaffirmation of the winery’s dedication to the land. The transition encapsulated a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, fostering a deeper connection between the grapes, the terroir, and the family’s vinous heritage.
The cellars of Vignaioli Contrà Soarda, adorned with barrels that have cradled vintages through the ages, stand as a testament to the winery’s commitment to excellence. Each bottle is a chapter in the history of a family deeply rooted in the Dolomite landscape, crafting wines that tell a tale of passion, perseverance, and a profound respect for the rich tapestry of history that defines this remarkable winemaking haven.
The Grape Varieties of Vignaioli Contrà Soarda: A Symphony of Flavours
Vignaioli Contrà Soarda’s commitment to excellence is mirrored in their meticulous selection and cultivation of grape varieties that thrive in the Dolomite terroir. Each varietal contributes to a symphony of flavours, creating a diverse portfolio that captivates the senses.
VIGNAIOLI CONTRÁ SOARDA
Strada soarda 26 | 36061 Bassano del Grappa | +39 0424 50 5562
Grape varieties of Contra Soarda
Garganega: Garganega is a white grape variety prominent in Italy, especially in the Veneto region. Known for its role in Soave wines, Garganega imparts crisp acidity, citrus notes, and an almond-like character to the wines.
Vespaiola: Vespaiola is an Italian white grape variety recognised for its aromatic profile. It contributes to the production of both sweet and dry wines, often showcasing floral aromas, honeyed notes, and a distinct elegance.
Marzemino Nero: Marzemino Nero is a red grape variety native to northern Italy. Wines made from Marzemino Nero exhibit dark fruit flavors, soft tannins, and a hint of spice. It is a versatile grape used in red blends.
Merlot: Merlot is a globally recognized red grape variety known for its smooth and approachable character. Wines crafted from Merlot often feature ripe plum and black cherry flavors, along with a velvety texture.
Carmenere: Originally from Bordeaux, Carmenere has become a signature grape of Chile. Carmenere wines boast rich, dark fruit flavors, a lush texture, and distinctive notes of green bell pepper and spice.
Pinot Nero (Pinot Noir): Pinot Nero, known internationally as Pinot Noir, is a red grape variety celebrated for its elegance and complexity. Wines made from Pinot Nero showcase red fruit flavors, silky tannins, and a characteristic earthy undertone.
Groppello: Groppello is a red grape variety grown in the Lombardy region of Italy. It is often used in the production of red blends, contributing to wines with bright acidity, red berry flavors, and a refreshing character.
The Dolomite region is characterized by a diverse range of soil types due to its complex geological history. The soil composition in the Dolomites is influenced by the presence of the Dolomite rock formations, which consist primarily of dolomite and limestone.
Dolomite and Limestone Soils: The predominant soil types in the Dolomites are derived from the weathering of the Dolomite rock, which is rich in dolomite and limestone minerals. Dolomite is a type of sedimentary rock composed of calcium magnesium carbonate. The presence of these minerals in the soil contributes to its alkaline nature.
Calcareous Soils: The high calcium content from limestone and dolomite in the soil leads to the development of calcareous soils. Calcareous soils are known for their alkaline pH, which can influence the availability of nutrients to plants. While these soils may limit the growth of acid-loving plants, they are well-suited for certain grape varieties commonly found in vineyards.
Rocky and Stony Terrain: The Dolomite region is characterized by mountainous terrain, and the soils often contain a significant amount of rocks and stones. This rocky composition can influence water drainage and heat retention in the soil, creating a unique environment for grape cultivation.
Variable Soil Profiles: Within the Dolomite region, there can be considerable variation in soil profiles due to factors such as altitude, slope, and exposure. Different vineyards and subregions may have soils with varying proportions of dolomite, limestone, and other minerals.
Sandy and Clayey Components: In addition to dolomite and limestone, the soils in the Dolomites may contain sandy or clayey components. These components contribute to the overall texture of the soil, affecting water retention, drainage, and nutrient availability.
Volcanic Influence: While not as prevalent as in some other Italian wine regions, there may be areas in the Dolomites with volcanic influence. Volcanic soils can add further complexity to the terroir, influencing the character of the wines produced.
