After having dedicated an in-depth analysis to the PDOs of Soave and Monte Veronese, it is time to delve into Lessini Durello and its connections with the volcanic soil.
PDO LESSINI DURELLO
The Lessini Durello denomination is located in the hilly arch on the north of the provinces of Verona and Vicenza, situated between them. In terms of soil origin, the territory has been generated by volcanic events that occurred 50 to 35 million years ago.
The mountainous and hilly arch are characterized by soil containing basaltic and tuffaceous rocks. There are several valleys crossed by rivers (Illasi, Tramigna, Alpone, Chiampo), all directed towards NNW-SSE, following the fault lines present in the area. The DOC, established in 1987, protects the production of a local vine variety of ancient and dark origin, the Durella, characterized by a resistant skin, averagely compact bunches, and highly apt for the production of sparkling wine (more than 90% of the total production is represented by sparkling wine, made using the Charmat method or the traditional method).
The Monti Lessini DOC, which is obtained after a second fermentation in the bottle (traditional method) and staying on the lees for at least 24 months, can boast a riserva title after 36 months. It is a well-structured, mellow and complex wine, with an always fresh nose, a distinctive feature of this varietal and of the volcanic soils where it grows. The Durella is exclusively present in this territory, and, until a few years ago, it used to be exported to territories in need of acidity in their productions, although its potential has been already foreseen.
The Consortium for the protection of the Lessini Durello currently counts 400 hectares of vineyards, a number that is destined to rise in the coming years. There are 35 producers that are part of the Consortium, for a total production of 1.2 million bottles.
