Veneto

Veneto is unusually broad in style. Garganega is central to Soave, Corvina-based blends define Valpolicella, and Glera is associated with Prosecco. The region’s best-known names therefore describe very different wines, even when they appear together on an Italian restaurant list.

Drying grapes changes several of those styles. Amarone is a dry red made from dried fruit; Recioto retains sweetness. Valpolicella Ripasso uses a different process and should not simply be read as inexpensive Amarone. For a first regional comparison, choose one Soave and one Valpolicella before moving to the more concentrated wines.