Monte dall'Ora Saseti Valpolicella Classico, Veneto, Italy

Named after the “little stones” that dot the limestone terraces of Valpolicella, Saseti captures the essence of Monte dall’Ora’s hillside vineyards in a bottle. This expressive red wine is both a reflection of its stony terroir and a testament to the estate’s biodynamic philosophy, yielding a fresh, textured Valpolicella that vibrates with purity, energy, and restraint.

Product Details:

• Wine Type: Red Wine
• Grape Composition: 50% Corvina, 20% Corvinone, 20% Rondinella, 10% Molinara & Oseleta
• Vine Age: 25 years
• ABV: 12%
• Farming: Certified Biodynamic
• Fermentation: Native yeasts; no sulfur during fermentation
• Vinification: Destemmed, gently pressed; 1-week maceration with manual punch-downs
• Aging: 3 months in concrete and steel tanks
• Bottling: Unfiltered, with minimal sulfur added

Sensory Description:

This Valpolicella pours a radiant ruby hue and opens with aromas of sour cherry, raspberry, and wild herbs, underscored by hints of dried rose and earth. On the palate, it is agile and lifted, with flavors of red plum, cranberry, and citrus peel. Fine tannins and bright acidity carry through to a mineral-driven finish that speaks to the rocky soils of the Monte dall’Ora vineyards.

Winemaker’s Background:

Carlo Venturini and Alessandra Zantedeschi, both born into Valpolicella winemaking families, founded Monte dall’Ora in 1995 with a mission to restore tradition and authenticity to their region. On a ridge near Castelrotto, they revitalized an abandoned vineyard and transitioned to biodynamic farming by 2006. Their work emphasizes native varietals, gentle cellar practices, and the ecological balance of the vineyard as key to expressing the soul of Valpolicella in every wine.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve lightly chilled at 58–60°F to preserve the wine’s vibrancy and aromatic detail. Ideal with grilled chicken, mushroom risotto, Margherita pizza, or a simple plate of charcuterie and soft cheeses. This is a versatile red that suits both casual evenings and seasonal, ingredient-driven fare.

Monte dall’Ora’s Saseti is a vivid, terroir-driven expression of Valpolicella that blends thoughtful farming, careful winemaking, and the timeless charm of Italy’s northeast hillsides.