When Luciana and Luigi Brunelli got married, her first condition was to continue the tradition of her beloved Custoza, the wine of her family. This refreshing and delicately fruity dry white wine comes from the South-Eastern shore of Lake Garda. This peculiar vine-growing environment creates a refined structure and a surprising complexity. Custoza has a straw yellow colour with greenish highlights.

It displays a complex, broad and forthright bouquet, thanks to the skilful blend of Trebbiano and Garganega varieties. At first, notes of almond, cherry and acacia blossoms; then Golden Delicious apple, cling peaches and fresh almonds against a mineral background. The sensation that lingers is fresh and dry. On the palate one finds yet again a subtle yet precise and perfect layering of fruity flavours, while the acidity hints at citrus fruits, citron and grapefruit in particular. The finish reveals an appealing tangy, palate-cleansing character.

On a mission to find the best Amarone for our Christmas range 2020, I went to the Vinitaly Trade Wine Fair in Verona with a view to single-mindedly taste my way through all the Amarone producers in the Veneto Hall. The very first stand (right by the side entrance, not the main entrance which was too busy) was Brunelli Vini. The very first taste was enough to suggest it would be a good day. First day, first stand, first wine – excellent. What more was in store? However, as I progressed tasting other producers, I had to keep going back to Brunelli’s stand to double check. Maybe I was giddy with the excitement of the first taste of the day. But, no; every time I went back they were still the best. Martina must have thought I was some saddo with nowhere else to go. By the end of the day with over 120 Amarones tasted I went back to the best and tasted through their whole range. The result was we shipped two of their Amarones, the Ripasso and the white Bianco di Custoza. Located exactly between Verona and Lake Garda, Valpolicella mineral soil is rich in limestone. The Mediterranean climate influenced by the breezes coming from the lake nearby and an ideal South-Southwest exposure combine with skillful and passionate work in the vineyards and with the appassimento technique to produce their extraordinary Amarone and Ripasso. And don’t forget the Bianco di Custoza which was voted Favourite Wine in our Lockdown Zoom Wine Tastings. The Estate is now in the hands of Alberto and his parents Luciana and Luigi. A mere twenty minutes from Verona and in the middle of their vineyards their holiday accommodation is also wonderful. We now stay there every Vinitaly.

Ideal as aperitivo or as an accompaniment for risottos, soups and fish dishes, in particular whitefish cooked in butter, grilled cuttlefish, tench or sole poached in white wine.