“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 journey. The group fosters dialogue and collaboration among some of Valpolicella’s most representative wineries. Their shared goal: promoting quality and celebrating 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
• Zenato.

Wine lovers and experts around the world recognize these historic wineries for their exceptional production—especially Amarone. Many of them have been crafting wines for generations. At the same time, Famiglie Storiche acts as a representative voice for Valpolicella. The region is celebrated in Italy and abroad 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.

Famiglie Storiche came together out of a shared commitment to producing Amarone 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, united by a shared vision. They were driven by a dedication to tradition, craftsmanship, and a deep bond with their land. Their goal was clear: 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. Producers may also include other indigenous varieties, such as Negrara, Forsellina, Dindarella, and Rossignola, in smaller amounts.

During the harvest, workers hand-select only the loosest bunches to prevent moisture buildup and reduce the risk of mold during the drying process. Winemakers carefully place the grapes on traditional reed mats, known as “arele,” or in wooden or plastic crates inside 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. Winemakers carefully monitor this stage to prevent the development of unwanted molds and maintain balance in the final wine, avoiding excessive concentration or 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.

Producers age Amarone for at least two years, and extend the aging to at least four years for Riserva versions. 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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