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Wandering Amid Wines And Castles near Rovereto

Let us go back for a moment in time. In an open carriage, we are travelling along the Vallagarina, admiring its many vineyards.

The unhurried pace of the horses is an invitation to admire this fertile and generous land. We are at the foot of Castel Beseno, a majestic and imposing manor. The sights of this building evokes a feeling of admiration and fear.

Little does the unprepared traveller realise that on its slopes is grown a grape which gives a smooth, delcate and mellow wine, the Moscato Giallo. It is as if this grape had been purposely chosen to attract wayfarers with its sweet allure.

Leaving behind us Calliano and Besenello, passing by precious Castel Pietra, we reach a point where the valley widens and in spring puts on a white veil.
The horses seem drunk with the perfume of cherry blossoma and we find ourselves intent on admiring this feast of spring; and yet, the fame of this part of the valley, dnown as "Dei Ziresi", does not stem for this spectacle, but rather from a noble wine produced there called Marzemino.

After Volano, we cross the valley, past Villa Lagarina and Nogaredo, where joyous shouts can be heard; the Games of Comun Comunale, which at this time of the year brighten up the atmosphere of the valley. From Nomi to Pomarolo, from Villa Lagarina to Isera, all the inhabitants convene on these grand occasions.

Touring our gaze toward the mountain, we can see Castel Noarna dominating the right bank of the Adige. On these surrounding terraced slopes grows the Nosiola grape which gives a smooth, fragrant wine to lighten our journey.

We have now come to Isera, and while we stop to let the horser drink, the people offer us a glass of wine. As we sip it, we pass the time discussing with them which is the best Marzemino: Isera or Ziresi? Which has the fruitiest flavour? Which has the most body? Which is the most typical? A harmless dispute never to be won. Each wine has characteristics all its own. Each is unique in its own way.

But now the evening is drawing in an the time has come to turn south again. Passing Rovereto, on the opposite bank of the river, and Mori, after just a short while we come to the Castle of Sabbionara. Here we shall spend the night, a magic enchanted night, after drinking a toast with in our eyers the splendid scenic vineyards of the Vallagarina.

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