It will have a particular focus on Red Tai and on gambellara, two gems of the local wine scene the 14th edition of Gustus – Wines and Flavours of Vicenza, a point of reference for wine lovers, which will take place the 5 and 6 October 2024 at “Arrigo Pedrollo” Conservatory of Vicenza.
Tai Rosso: also called “uva del marangon” because it was brought to Veneto by a carpenter from Nanto who had served in the Austrian army in the 19th century
Il Red Tai, also known as Tocai rosso, is a grape variety that has been able to cross centuries and borders to find its ideal kingdom on Berici Hills. With genetics that connect it to Sardinian Cannonau, French Grenache and Spanish Garnacha, this grape variety tells a story of travel and discovery. Its origins are shrouded in mystery, but grape seed remains found in Sardinia dating back 3200 years suggest that Tai Rosso may be one of the oldest wines in the Mediterranean. Today, Tai Rosso is grown globally, from Australia to North America, but its beating heart remains the Mediterranean basin, particularly southern France, eastern Spain and, of course, Sardinia.
Grape seed remains found in Sardinia dating back 3200 years suggest it may be one of the oldest wines in the Mediterranean
On the Berici Hills, Tai Rosso is much more than just a grape variety; it is a true icon. Local legends tell that a carpenter from Nanto, returning from military service with the Austrian army at the beginning of the 19th century, brought with him this precious bunch, which has since become known as “uva del marangon” (carpenter's grape). Other theories maintain that its origins may date back to the Cardinals of Vicenza, who during the papal schism may have introduced cuttings of Grenache from France. Today, Tai Rosso is renowned for its quality and history, especially in the Barbarano area, where it has been the subject of viticultural studies and experiments since the 20th century.
Tai Rosso is a vine that loves the sun and heat, thriving on the lean and dry soils of the Berici Hills. Traditionally grown on pergolas, today many producers adopt modern techniques such as guyot or spurred cordon to optimize its vigor and guarantee consistent quality. Resistant to wind and drought, Tai Rosso requires attention however due to its potential vulnerability to diseases such as colatura and flavescence dorée. With large and compact bunches, blue-violet grapes, it gives life to wines of a intense red color and a enveloping aromaIts structure can vary from light to medium, while the organoleptic profile is characterised by freshness e fruity, enriched by subtle notes of spices and a persistent finish. Resistant to wind and drought, Tai Rosso requires attention to avoid diseases such as colatura and flavescence dorée.
During Gustus, Tai Rosso will be the protagonist of the first WineLab, scheduled for Saturday 5 October at 18.00. Simon Staffler, editorial manager for Italy of Falstaff magazine, will lead this session, exploring modern and fascinating interpretations of this grape variety historically rooted in the Vicenza winemaking tradition.
Gambellara: a treasure of the Vicenza winemaking tradition
Il gambellara, with his colore which varies from straw yellow to golden depending on the winemaking and the position of the vineyards, is another prominent protagonist of the event. Its scent sensitive e fruity, with hints of ripe white fruit and white flowers, results in a dry and crisp flavor, harmonious and slightly bitter, typical of the Garganega grape.
The Gambellara hills, already cultivated with “a palo secco” vines in the 500th century, saw the introduction of Garganega in the XNUMXth century, which gradually replaced the traditional vine. Today, Gambellara is a symbol of quality and tradition, continuing to represent excellence in Vicenza viticulture.
During Gustus, Gambellara will be the protagonist of the second WineLab, scheduled for Sunday 6 October at 18.00. Max Zanichelli, professional taster and wine writer, will lead this session, offering a journey through the various expressions of this wine, from the liveliest versions to the classic methods, and highlighting the peculiarities of Garganega.
A weekend of tastings and culture
Gustus 2024 is not only an event for wine lovers, but also a celebration of local culture. Visitors will have the opportunity to taste over 100 labels from more than 30 wineries, representing the DOCs of Colli Berici, Vicenza and Gambellara. The experience will be enriched by the musical performances of the students of the Conservatory, who will accompany the tasting journey.
Details and tickets
The event will be open to the public from 17.00pm to 22.00pm on Saturdays e from 17.00pm to 21.00pm on Sundays. The Tickets are already available for pre-sale at a price of 20 euros and can also be purchased on site at a cost of 25 euros. Members of the AIS, Onav, Fisar, Fis and Slow Food associations will benefit from a 5 euro discount. The ticket includes a tasting glass and a plate of gastronomic specialties. Participation in the WineLabs is by reservation, at a cost of 15 euros each.
