Italy · Veneto · Colli Euganei
Monteforche is a small, family-owned winery located in the Colli Euganei hills of Veneto, Italy. Situated southwest of Padova in the hamlet of Zovon di Vò, the estate spans approximately 4.5 hectares. The vineyards are perched at an altitude of 170 meters above sea level, benefiting from volcanic soils rich in marl and limestone, constant mild winds, and sufficient rainfall—conditions that impart finesse and balance to the wines.
The winery is managed by Alfonso Soranzo, a former professional French horn player with a degree from the Padova School of Music. In 2012, Alfonso chose to leave his musical career to fully dedicate himself to viticulture, returning to his family's land to continue a tradition that has spanned several generations. Alfonso tends the vineyards organically, personally overseeing all aspects of cultivation without the use of chemicals or biotechnology.
In the cellar, Alfonso employs a minimalist approach. Grapes undergo spontaneous fermentation on the skins with native yeasts and are aged on their lees in concrete vats until bottling. The wines are neither filtered nor clarified, and no additives are introduced, allowing the authentic expression of the terroir to shine through.
Monteforche produces a range of wines that reflect the unique characteristics of the Colli Euganei region. For instance, "Carantina" is made from Garganega grapes sourced from vines up to thirty years old, planted on volcanic soils. The wine undergoes a two-day skin maceration before being pressed into concrete vats for nine months of aging, resulting in a pale, delicate wine with gentle notes of stone fruits, smoke, and minerals.
Sustainability is at the heart of Monteforche's philosophy. By eschewing chemical treatments and embracing traditional, low-intervention methods, Alfonso ensures that the vineyards remain healthy and productive for future generations. This commitment to environmental stewardship is evident in every bottle, offering wine enthusiasts a genuine taste of Colli Euganei's rich heritage.
