The grape variety Vespaiolo

Vespaiolo is a distinctive white grape variety primarily grown in the Veneto region of northeastern Italy, especially in Breganze. Renowned for its vibrant acidity and expressive aromatics, Vespaiolo delivers a fragrant bouquet of citrus blossom, white peach, green apple, and hints of tropical fruit. Its palate is notably crisp and lively, often marked by flavors of tangy pear, lime zest, subtle herbaceous notes, and a characteristic mineral undertone.

This grape excels in producing both dry and sweet wine styles. Dry Vespaiolo wines are typically fresh, light to medium-bodied, and driven by zesty acidity, making them particularly invigorating. The grape, however, attains its most celebrated expression in passito-style sweet wines such as Breganze Torcolato. Here, late-harvested grapes concentrate sugars and aromas, yielding lusciously sweet yet perfectly balanced dessert wines with honeyed, nutty, and apricot-laden complexity.

Vespaiolo pairs exceptionally well with seafood, shellfish, and fresh goat cheese in its dry form. Its sweeter versions are ideal companions to blue cheese, almond-based desserts, or fruit tarts, enhancing both savory and sweet dining experiences thanks to their vibrant structure and nuanced flavors.