15 by the glassSoave, Verona Province
Founded 1980 in the medieval village of Soave; returned to direct management by Cantina del Castello in April 2024. The best point-of-access for Soave and Valpolicella wines by the glass, with private room available for groups upstairs. Contact enotecasoave@gmail.com.
The list: Soave Classico and abroad, Garganega-Trebbiano and pure Garganega; Valpolicella; Lessini Durello classic method; curated charcuterie boards
Pours: Soave Classico DOC, Garganega di Gambellara, Lessini Durello Metodo Classico
Tip: Order the Lessini Durello metodo classico - this Veneto sparkling made from Durella grapes is one of the region's best-kept secrets.
60 by the glassCentro storico, Verona
Verona institution combining restaurant, wine bar, and wine cellar. Wine Spectator Grand Award recipient since 2004; cellar deep in Italian and international labels. Daily from 11:00 to 01:00; serious wine list with knowledgeable sommelier team.
The list: Wine Spectator Grand Award winner since 2004; extensive Italian and international cellar; sommelier on duty daily; 11:00-01:00 Mon-Sun
Pours: Amarone Classico, Barolo, Brunello di Montalcino
Tip: The private cellar tour (ask in advance) shows historic vintages going back to the 1940s.
20 by the glassSan Marco, Venice
Hidden in a quiet courtyard just behind the Rialto in San Marco, I Rusteghi is a sommelier-run bacaro where the wine list takes priority. Strong Veneto and Friuli backbone with thoughtful cicchetti pairings. A locals' favourite for serious ombre.
The list: Sommelier-run oasis in a quiet courtyard behind Rialto; curated Veneto and Friuli list; wine leads, food plays support; focused ombra selection
Pours: Amarone della Valpolicella, Ribolla Gialla, Soave Classico Superiore
Tip: The courtyard is easy to miss - look for the small sign at the mouth of Calle del Tentor.
20 by the glassCentro storico, Verona
Family-owned enoteca in Verona's historic centre led by owner Bruno Baraldi, known for his organic and sustainably farmed selections with deep local knowledge. Also offers wine tastings through the Winedering platform. A retail and tasting hybrid.
The list: Organic and sustainably produced wine focus; knowledgeable owner Bruno; Verona region specialties; retail and by-the-glass service
Pours: Organic Valpolicella, Biodynamic Soave, Custoza Bianco
Sommelier: Bruno Baraldi
Tip: Ask Bruno about biodynamic Valpolicella producers - he sources directly from smaller estates not widely distributed.
10 by the glassSoave, Verona Province
Located at the foot of Soave Castle in the 13th-century Palazzo dei Conti Sambonifacio, Cantina del Castello has produced Soave Classico since the 1960s. Also operates the Enoteca del Soave retail outlet. Direct estate tastings in the historic cellar.
The list: Soave Classico DOC from medieval village cellar; cellar in 13th-century Counts Sambonifacio palace; Mon-Fri 8:00-18:30, Sat 10:00-17:00
Pours: Soave Classico DOC, Soave Pressoni, Recioto di Soave
Tip: The Pressoni single-vineyard Soave shows the volcanic basalt character that distinguishes the Classico zone.
15 by the glassRialto, San Marco, Venice
Founded 2001 near the Rialto by certified sommelier Lorenzo Menegus. Every bottle is personally tasted and selected by Lorenzo. Strong Veneto and Friuli backbone; also carries grappa, rum, whisky, gin, and balsamic. One of Venice's most acclaimed wine shops.
The list: Sommelier Lorenzo Menegus curates Veneto and Friuli selection with international wines; one of Venice's best retail shops; natural and conventional labels
Pours: Amarone della Valpolicella, Ribolla Gialla, Prosecco Superiore DOCG
Sommelier: Lorenzo Menegus
Tip: Tell Lorenzo your flavour profile and budget - his personal recommendations consistently overdeliver.
