Groppello

The Groppello grape is a historic red variety native to northern Italy, belonging to a broader family of grapes known as Groppelli. These closely related varieties are traditionally grown in a geographical corridor stretching from Lake Garda in Lombardy to the Val di Non in Trentino-Alto Adige.

Among the various types of Groppello, the one cultivated in Lombardy - particularly around Lake Garda - is known for producing more intense, structured, and full-bodied wines compared to its counterparts in other regions. However, in practice, different sub-varieties of Groppello are often vinified together, making it difficult to distinguish between them in commercial production.

The name Groppello is believed to derive from the Venetian word "gropo", meaning "knot" or "lump," a reference to the grape’s tightly packed clusters of small, dark berries. This dense formation of grapes gives the variety its distinctive appearance and contributes to the richness of its wines.

Groppello is mainly found in Veneto, Trentino, and Lombardy, where it plays a key role in various DOC wines, including the celebrated Valtenesi DOC and Riviera del Garda Classico DOC. These wines are typically fragrant, medium-bodied, and well-balanced, with notes of red berries, spices, and a gentle tannic structure - making them ideal for pairing with regional cuisine or enjoying slightly chilled in warmer months.