“Famiglie Storiche”

The year 2025 opens with a significant development for Famiglie Storiche, founded in 2009 by ten historic wineries of Valpolicella. It now counts thirteen members and continues reaffirming its commitment to enhancing Amarone and its territory.

Famiglie Storiche announces Venturini’s departure from the association and Bertani’s entry, which is part of Angelini Wines & Estates.

“On behalf of all our members,” states Pierangelo Tommasi, President of Famiglie Storiche, “I would like to thank the Venturini family for their valuable contribution over the years. We fully respect their decision to continue their journey outside the group, and we extend our best wishes for the continued success of their remarkable work. At the same time, we are incredibly pleased to welcome Bertani as a new member of Famiglie Storiche. Bertani is a benchmark name for Valpolicella and Amarone, and its presence will bring further value to our shared mission. Our association consists of wineries that, through their history and daily efforts, safeguard and promote the identity of this extraordinary territory, united by the goal of elevating Amarone both in Italy and around the world.”

With this new addition, Famiglie Storiche strengthens its path, fostering dialogue and collaboration among some of Valpolicella’s most representative wineries in the name of quality and the promotion of the region’s iconic wine.

The origins of Famiglie Storiche

“Famiglie Storiche” was established in June 2009 as a collaboration between ten prestigious wineries from Valpolicella, one of Verona’s most renowned wine-producing regions.

Today, the association includes 13 esteemed members: Allegrini, Begali, Brigaldara, Guerrieri Rizzardi, Masi, Musella, Speri, Tedeschi, Tenuta Sant’Antonio, Tommasi, Torre D’Orti, Venturini, and Zenato. These historic wineries, many of which have been crafting wines for generations, are recognized worldwide for their exceptional production—notably, Amarone. At the same time, Famiglie Storiche serves as a representative voice for Valpolicella, a region celebrated in Italy and internationally for its fine wines.

Since 2010, the association has owned the Antica Bottega del Vino, a historic wine bar dating back to the 16th century in the heart of Verona. Even today, this iconic establishment remains one of the region’s most prestigious and well-known venues.

The foundation of Famiglie Storiche was rooted in a shared commitment to Amarone production and a deep connection to the Valpolicella region. Cavaliere del Lavoro Sandro Boscaini, now president of Masi, conceived the idea of uniting some of the area’s most distinguished wineries under a single association.

In 2009, several wineries came together, all driven by a shared vision: a dedication to tradition, craftsmanship, and a strong bond with their land, alongside a desire to elevate global recognition for Valpolicella’s wines—especially Amarone.

Amarone and the philosophy of the association

Amarone is a blend of five key grape varieties: Corvina Veronese, a noble grape (ranging from 45% to 95%) valued for its structure, aromatics, and velvety texture; Corvinone, which enhances aromatic complexity; Rondinella (5% to 30%), contributing color and savory notes; Molinara, bringing freshness; and Oseleta, which adds depth of color and structure. Other indigenous varieties, such as Negrara, Forsellina, Dindarella, and Rossignola, may also be included in smaller amounts.

During the harvest, only the loosest bunches are hand-selected to prevent moisture buildup and the risk of mold during the drying process. The grapes are then carefully placed on traditional reed mats, known as “arele,” or in wooden or plastic crates within specialized drying lofts, called fruttai. The duration of this drying phase depends on the weather conditions of the vintage, but it typically lasts until mid-December. This stage is meticulously monitored to ensure that unwanted molds do not develop and maintain balance in the final wine, preventing excessive concentration or excessive alcohol content.

As the grapes dry, they lose at least half their weight, their acidity decreases, the ratio of fructose to glucose shifts, polyphenol levels increase, and glycerin content rises. After this crucial period, the grapes are pressed, and fermentation begins.

Amarone must be aged for at least two years, while Riserva versions require at least four. However, the members of Famiglie Storiche adhere to a philosophy of patience, allowing their wines to mature even longer. Each winery carefully determines the optimal aging time to ensure a wine of remarkable structure, balance, and harmony that tells a story of time, craftsmanship, and excellence.

Amarone is genuinely a one-of-a-kind wine. Crafted from dried grapes, it offers a complex and rewarding experience in the glass. Initially considered a wine best enjoyed on its own, Amarone has proven to be an excellent companion to traditional cuisine and bold, flavorful dishes. That said, it remains just as captivating when savored solo.

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