Delle Venezie

Delle Venezie

46°04'4" N

LATITUDE

11°07'15" E

LONGITUDE

5

APPELATIONS

about this subregion

The Delle Venezie wine subregion, located in northeastern Italy, encompasses the regions of Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and the autonomous province of Trento. Covering approximately 32,000 square kilometers and over 13,000 hectares of vineyards, it is Italy’s largest wine-producing area by volume and a global powerhouse for white wine, especially Pinot Grigio. The region benefits from a cool, Alpine-influenced climate with average annual temperatures between 10–14°C and rainfall ranging from 700 to 1,300 mm, creating ideal conditions for the production of fresh, aromatic wines.

Delle Venezie is best known for its Pinot Grigio, which accounts for roughly 70% of its wine output and represents about 40% of the world’s total Pinot Grigio production. In 2024, the subregion bottled approximately 1.7 million hectoliters of Pinot Grigio—equivalent to around 230 million bottles—demonstrating steady growth and strong international demand. The DOC regulations require that Pinot Grigio wines contain at least 85% Pinot Grigio grapes, with the remainder permitted from other approved white varieties such as Chardonnay, Friulano, and Garganega.

While Pinot Grigio dominates, Delle Venezie also produces a diverse range of other wines. Among reds, Merlot is the most widely planted, delivering approachable, fruit-forward wines, while whites like Garganega (notably in Soave), Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc contribute to the region’s varied portfolio. The region also allows for sparkling (Spumante) and lightly sparkling (Frizzante) wines, with still wines making up 98% of production and sparkling styles accounting for a small but notable share.

The region’s success is underpinned by careful supply management, high quality standards, and a focus on freshness and approachability. Delle Venezie’s wines are celebrated for their crisp acidity, delicate fruit flavors, and versatility—qualities that have secured their popularity with both casual drinkers and connoisseurs worldwide.

Associations

27140

Vineyard Hectares

151

WINERIES

1500 - 2200

GROWING DEGREE DAYS

Discover Terroir

The Delle Venezie wine subregion is located in northeastern Italy, encompassing the regions of Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and the autonomous province of Trento. This expansive area, historically known as the Tre Venezie or Triveneto, covers more than 13,000 hectares of vineyards and is Italy’s largest white wine-producing zone.

The landscape of Delle Venezie is shaped by a unique interplay of natural features. Five major rivers—the Po, Adige, Tagliamento, Brenta, and Isonzo—flow through the region, providing vital moisture and moderating the climate. The Dolomite Mountains rise to the north, offering protection from harsh weather and contributing cool alpine breezes, while Lake Garda and the Adriatic Sea help balance temperatures and extend the growing season.

This diverse geography results in a range of vineyard sites, from flat river valleys and coastal plains to rolling hills and Alpine foothills. The soils are equally varied, consisting of gravel, sand, calcareous material, and alluvial deposits, all with excellent drainage. These conditions allow for optimal grape ripening and contribute to the region’s renowned wine quality.

The landscape of Delle Venezie is defined by a remarkable combination of natural features that create ideal conditions for viticulture. The region is crossed by five major rivers—the Po, Adige, Tagliamento, Brenta, and Isonzo. These waterways not only provide essential moisture to the vineyards but also help regulate the local climate, reducing the risk of extreme temperature swings and supporting healthy grape development.

To the north, the Dolomite Mountains form a dramatic natural barrier. These mountains shield the vineyards from harsh northern winds and storms, while also channeling cool alpine breezes down into the valleys. This airflow is crucial, as it helps maintain lower nighttime temperatures, which in turn preserves the grapes’ acidity and enhances the aromatic qualities of the wines.

Lake Garda, located to the west of the region, plays a significant role in moderating the local climate. Its large body of water absorbs heat during the day and releases it at night, preventing sudden temperature drops and extending the growing season. Similarly, the Adriatic Sea to the south and east influences the region by bringing gentle breezes and humidity, which can help prevent drought stress during the warm summer months.

Together, these natural elementsrivers, mountains, lake, and sea—create a diverse and balanced environment for grape growing. The interplay of moisture, temperature moderation, and airflow allows Delle Venezie’s vineyards to produce consistently high-quality grapes, resulting in wines that are fresh, aromatic, and expressive of the region’s unique terroir.

The region's soils are notable for having excellent drainage. Due to the impact of the Po river, they are constructed of various materials, including calcareous material, gravel, alluvial deposits, and sand.

Discover

Delle Venezie is renowned for its diverse grape varieties, with both international and native grapes thriving in its cool, Alpine-influenced climate

  • Pinot Grigio: Pinot Grigio is the flagship white grape of Delle Venezie, and DOC regulations require that wines labeled as Pinot Grigio must contain at least 85% Pinot Grigio grapes, with the remainder permitted from other approved white varieties. The wines must have a minimum alcohol content of 11%. Pinot Grigio from this region is known for its fresh acidity, minerality, and versatility, and is produced in still, sparkling (Spumante), and lightly sparkling (Frizzante) styles.
  • Merlot: Merlot is the most widely planted red grape in Delle Venezie. It is valued for its adaptability to various soil types and its ability to produce wines ranging from light and aromatic to velvety and full-bodied. While there are no specific DOC blending requirements for Merlot in the region, it is commonly used for varietal wines and blends, offering soft tannins and ripe fruit flavors.
  • Garganega: Garganega is a key white grape, especially prominent in the Soave area. For Soave DOC wines, Garganega must make up at least 70% of the blend, with the remainder allowed from Trebbiano di Soave and other approved varieties. The wines are typically light, floral, and citrus-driven, and can also be crafted into richer, more age-worthy styles such as Soave Superiore DOCG.
  • Chardonnay: Chardonnay is frequently grown and often used as a blending partner with Pinot Grigio and other local varieties. There are no strict DOC requirements for Chardonnay in Delle Venezie, but it is commonly found in the region’s Bianco blends, contributing body and subtle fruit notes to the wines.
  • Friulano: Friulano is another important white grape, often included in blends for Bianco wines. While not subject to strict varietal requirements in the DOC, it adds floral and almond notes, enhancing the complexity and aromatic profile of the region’s white wines.
  • Sauvignon Blanc: Sauvignon Blanc is grown throughout Delle Venezie and is typically used in blends or as a varietal wine. Like Chardonnay and Friulano, there are no strict DOC requirements for Sauvignon Blanc, but it is prized for its aromatic intensity and crisp acidity, making the wines refreshing and lively.

The Delle Venezie wine region is renowned for producing a diverse array of red and white wines.

  • Among the most common red wines in Delle Venezie, Merlot shines brightly. This versatile grape thrives in the region's diverse microclimates, producing wines with luscious red fruit flavors, supple tannins, and an approachable character. Often used as a single-varietal wine or as part of elegant blends, Merlot captivates wine enthusiasts with its accessible and enjoyable nature.
  • On the white wine front, Pinot Grigio reigns supreme as one of the region's flagship varieties. Loved for its crispness, citrusy aromas, and refreshing palate, Pinot Grigio showcases the epitome of Italian white wines. The region's cooler nights and sunny days during the growing season contribute to the development of vibrant acidity and balanced flavors in the grapes, creating delightful and easy-drinking white wines.
  • The Delle Venezie winemakers also embrace the Garganega grape, famous for its role in crafting Soave wines. These whites entice with delicate floral scents, notes of ripe pear, and an underlying minerality, highlighting the region's diverse terroir. The Garganega-based wines offer a harmonious blend of elegance and freshness, perfect for enjoying on warm summer days.
  • Beyond Merlot, Pinot Grigio, and Garganega, Delle Venezie's winemakers experiment with other indigenous and international grape varieties, producing an exciting array of red and white wines to please every palate.

In every glass of Delle Venezie wine, one can savor the essence of northeastern Italy's winemaking expertise and the captivating spirit of exploration and innovation. From charming reds that complement hearty Italian dishes to crisp whites that enliven the senses, the wines of Delle Venezie offer an unforgettable journey through the vibrant landscape of Italian viticulture.

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