more about Trentino-Alto Adige
The great return of the Campi Sarni Rossi, a spot-on Bordeaux blend we enjoyed because it knows how to be complex and sophisticated. -Duemillavini 2008Vallarom in Avio -- CERTIFIED ORGANIC!
Limestone and gravel debris have fallen from the two massifs (see picture) throughout the centuries to form ancient alluvial terraces. Here, in the little known Vallagarina area of Southern Trentino, the Adige river beigns its climb from the plains of Veneto into the Italian Dolomites. Standing in the vineyards, you get that sensation of having finally reached the Alps, but there's the warm ora breeze from the Veneto to remind you of the journey. The Vallagarina is a bit under the radar, but as far back as Roman times it was well-regarded as an area for making excellent wines.
Among all this geological grandeur, though, Fillipo and Barbara have that outstanding mix of being sophisticated, down-to-earth, and basically a family farming the land. Here's what Fillipo said when asked about his wines:
"I don't want to bore anybody and I don't want to praise my wines because if they deserve any merit it shouldn't come from me. I can only say to come to the winery whenever you wish, this will make me happy. I live there in the middle of the vines with my wife Barbara and my son Riccardo. We can taste together and share opinions."
Vallarom produces a host of wines from local grapes such as Moscato Giallo and Pinot Bianco to working with international varieties on Italian Alp soil. The Super-Trentino blends speak to the Roman history of the area back:the white, Vadum Caesaris "Shallows of Caesar," is where Julius Caesar crossed the Adige river; it's a mix of mostly Pinot Bianco and Chardonnay with some Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling. The red blend is entitled Campi Sarni, "Sarnian Fields," a very elegant Alpine bordeux blend that's released from the winery only after four years of age.
