Palazzo Montanari – Where history, culture and wine meet in Veneto

Palazzo Montanari is far more than a winery – it is a place where Italian history, artistic architecture, and an excellent wine tradition combine in a unique harmony. Nestled in the rolling hills of Valpolicella Classica, just a few kilometers from Verona, the winery looks back on a centuries-old history that stretches back to antiquity.

A place steeped in history with aristocratic roots

The origins of Palazzo Montanari date back to an ancient castrum – once a refuge in times of danger. Over time, under the rule of the Scaligeri family and during the Venetian era, the estate developed into an agricultural center. From the 15th century onwards, the complex gradually transformed into a magnificent villa with a residential tower, kitchen garden, wine cellar, and a small church dedicated to Saint Mary Magdalene de' Pazzi.

Between the 16th and 18th centuries, the villa became a summer residence for noble families, a place for festivities, hunting, and culture. Impressive frescoes depicting scenes from Ariosto's Orlando Furioso, Ovid's Metamorphoses, and the Holy Scriptures still testify to the cultural depth of its former inhabitants.

Today: A place of hospitality and fine wines

The Nicolis family, wine producers for generations, have made it their mission not only to preserve the villa but also to breathe new life into it. With great attention to detail and respect for history, they produce classic Valpolicella wines and extra virgin olive oil here – in harmony with nature and the region's long winemaking tradition.

A privileged terroir in Valpolicella Classica

The vineyards of Palazzo Montanari lie in a natural amphitheater, known as a Brolo, on typical dry stone walls (Marogne) facing southeast. Calcareous, stony soils and a special microclimate – influenced by air currents from the Fumane Valley – create ideal conditions for grape varieties such as Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara. The result is expressive, elegant wines like Valpolicella Classico DOC, Ripasso Superiore, and Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG.

Key facts about the Palazzo Montanari winery

• Location: San Pietro in Cariano, Veneto – heart of Valpolicella Classica
• History: Originally a castle, later a Venetian country villa with frescoes from the 16th–18th centuries
• Grape varieties: Corvina Grossa, Rondinella, Molinara
• Cultivation: Dry stone walls (Marogne), calcareous soils, southeast-facing slopes
• Products: Valpolicella Classico, Ripasso Superiore, Amarone DOCG, extra virgin olive oil
• Business: Family-run by the Nicolis family
• Philosophy: Authenticity, tranquility, hospitality & respect for nature

A place to discover – with all your senses

A visit to Palazzo Montanari offers more than just wine: here, tranquility becomes an experience, accompanied by the beauty of nature, the scent of ancient stone walls, the taste of handcrafted wines, and the soul of a place steeped in history. Whether during a tasting, a stroll through the vineyards, or a celebration in the frescoed halls – this place leaves a lasting impression.