Explore the Prosecco Wine Region

ndulging in one of these classic fresh puréed white peach and Prosecco cocktails on Venice Tours in northern Italy, the place where this mixed drink was invented, or a wine tasting of fine Prosecco vinos produced here.

Italy vacations that include a sojourn in Venice and small group Venice day tours to show you secrets of the historic Veneto wine region will romance the soul, captivate the senses, and enchant you with rich culture and warm hospitality.

As you might expect, this verdant landscape in the valley north of Venice is at its most stunning in spring and summer. Here vineyards cultivate the Glera grape, which is more commonly known now as the Prosecco grape and does exceptionally well in the mild climate.

Exclusively in this northern region local wineries use time-tested wine-making traditions to produce the sparkling white wine that has become more refined with delicate aromas, light taste and full flavours, and fine bubbles. No longer is Prosecco considered only for pairing with white peach purée in a Bellini.

The world has come to appreciate this dry, sweet, sparkling wine with the flowery bouquet. There are three types of Prosecco:

• Prosecco Spumante - light and fizzy, the perfect aperitif
• Prosecco Tranquillo - very nice with a robust meal
• Prosecco Frizzante Dolce - the sweeter dessert wine

Just a short drive from the rich history found in the city of Venice, travellers who take Avventure Bellissime’s small group Hill Towns of Veneto Trip will explore enchanting Medieval Marostica, Bassano del Grappa, and Asolo at an unhurried pace with expert licensed guides.

Winding through the countryside on back roads, your small group tour gives you ample time to relax and explore each stop. Your guide will weave together tales of history and culture and point out the significant architecture along the way.

In Marostica you enter the streets of a fortified castle on a site that was once under Roman rule. This is a lovely village for a stroll and if you time your visit just right you may even find some fresh local cherries for sale. In the main square there is a popular life-size chess board that can be played with people in the place of each chess piece.

Here, each even year in the early fall, a play written just after the Second World War is enacted that chronicles the story of two noblemen who fight for the hand of the lovely Lionora with chess determining the victor rather than a duel. After the game is played on the square’s giant chess board, all the actors and villagers enjoy some revelry with music and dancing.