Our final day and still one more visit as we headed off for the arduous 3km drive to Villa Angarano on the outskirts of Bassano del Grappa.
This Villa is a splendid, classic Palladian structure that is owned by the five Bianchi Michiel sisters and whose history dates back to the Doges of Venice.
It was absolutely tipping it down so we rushed inside and got a marvellous insight into the symmetry and design of Palladio and saw the small chapel. We declined a walk into the vineyards as it was starting to sleet so we took refuge in their tasting room. Given they are situated in the Breganze DOC which we discovered on Saturday at Col Dovigo, I was expecting some light, easy fresh styles – and nothing could be further from that!
Their Vespaiolo was rich and textured, the Chardonnay elegant and judiciously oaked; and the 2012 and 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon blends were stylish and complex. Their Torcolato was sublimely rich.
Given that the Breganze DOC has only 15 producers and covers 400 hectares, it revealed a wealth of depth.
With the tour concluded, we huddled in the hotel before departing for Venice airport.
The weather could not dampen our spirits. We’ve had a great tour that has covered a myriad of grape varieties, flavours and styles and a wonderful mix of sparkling, white, red and sweet wines.
We all came away with much greater respect for Prosecco and are seriously impressed by this region of Italy that deserves to be better known. Which is good, because I am bringing another group in June!