Custoza
Custoza is the name of a village located on gentle morainic hills, between the city of Verona and Lake Garda.
Takes its name from this municipality, site of two battles during the Risorgimento, the Bianco di Custoza or Custoza DOC wine, is a fresh white wine with a slight aroma, which expresses the uniqueness of the territory from which it comes from.
The Scaligeri Castles of Valeggio and Villafranca, Villa Pignatti Morano and Villa Maffei Sigurtà, with its splendid garden, as well as Borghetto sul Mincio, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, with the mills and fortresses of the Visconteo bridge, are just a few of the historical and artistic beauties of the Custoza area.
The DOC Custoza extends for 8200 hectares distributed in 9 Veronese municipalities. The vineyards are located in hilly areas, originating from what was an extensive glacier before being Lake Garda. The lake still influences this area today, ensuring an ideal microclimate for growing grapes and a temperature range essential for the development of fruity and floral aromas.
The traditional White Custoza wine has a straw yellow color, has a delicate, floral, fruity and slightly aromatic scent, it is savory and delicately soft on the palate. Aging enhances its spicy nuances and notes of ripe fruit.
You can also find the variants Custoza Superiore, Custoza Spumante and Custoza Passito.
The vines used are the autochthonous Garganega for 20-40% (floral and fruity), Trebbianello for 5-30% (local biotype of Friulian Tocaji) and Bianca Fernanda for 0-30% (slightly aromatic).
According to the specification, it is also allowed to use other vines such as Trebbiano in the percentage of 10-45% and Malvasia, Italian riesling, Pinot bianco, Chardonnay and Manzoni Bianco for 0-30%.
Custoza DOC goes well with fish dishes, shellfish, white meats and is perfect with the typical tortellini of Valeggio.
Visiting the area of Custoza will be a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the history of these places, dotted with Roman remains, Romanesque churches and evidence of Italian Risorgimento history, such as the famous Ossuary of Custoza.
The young and lively Custoza will win you over, are you ready to leave with us?
FAQ
How can I get to Custoza from Verona?
Custoza is located about 20 kilometers of Verona and we offer several options to make the journey part of the experience:
Tours departing from Verona: the easiest solution, our group and private tours depart from our office in Via della Valverde 75 (37122, Verona) and include transport in an air-conditioned minivan.
Private transfers: we can arrange a pick-up directly from your hotel.
On your own: Custoza can be reached from Verona Porta Nuova station on ATV line 24 (to Caselle di Sommacampagna), from there, take the ATV line 160 to arrive to Custoza, but to visit wineries, joining an organized tour is strongly recommended to avoid driving and parking issues.
Which tours do you offer in Custoza?
Among the tours offered by Pagus Wine Tours, there is one in particular dedicated to the Custoza region:
Borghetto and Custoza: a full day tour during which guests have the opportunity to admire the gentle morainic hills of Lake Garda, taste Custoza DOC white wines, and discover the charming village of Borghetto, overlooking the Mincio river. https://www.paguswinetours.com/group-wine-tours/borghetto-and-custoza-wine/
Which grape varieties characterized the Custoza DOC area?
The main grape varieties used in Custoza for the production of its white wines are Garganega, Trebbianello Toscano and Bianca Fernanda.
Which wines can I taste in Custoza?
The Custoza DOC region is mainly known for its white wines, including Custoza DOC (a dry, light and aromatic white wine), Custoza Superiore DOC (a more complex version with greater structure), Custoza Riserva DOC and, finally, Custoza Passito ( a sweet version).
Are there any typical local products in Custoza?
In addition to its winemaking tradition, Custoza offers a typical product that can only be found in this area: “Broccoletto di Custoza”. Considered a local symbol, it is typically eaten boiled with hard-boiled eggs and salami, but also prepared in oil preserves, pesto and breadsticks.
Which are the main attractions to visit in Custoza?
In Custoza, the main historical site not to be missed is the Ossuary of Custoza which houses the remains of soldiers who fell during the battles of the Italian Risorgimento.
Is Custoza ideal for walks and outdoor activities?
Absolutely! Custoza is characterized by a beautiful landscape of morainic hills where visitors can walk among vineyards and immerse themselves in the surrounding nature, creating a truly holistic experience.