"Sofai" means under the beech trees . Once upon a time, farmers would rest in the shade of those trees during summer days, while their oxen refreshed themselves. Today, that same landscape of the Soffaino hills is home to the vineyards that give life to this organic DOP red wine from Lake Garda .
When we heard this story, we understood that Sofai 2018 is more than just a wine. It's a piece of memory, of the Valtènesi agricultural tradition, of that profound bond between man and land that we risk losing today.
Groppello, Marzemino, and Rebo . Three native grapes harvested by hand in small crates. In early October, the best Rebo and Marzemino grapes are selected and left to dry in the attic until they lose about 30% of their weight .
It's not a quick process. It takes weeks. But it's the only way to concentrate aromas, sugars, and structure. After further selection, the bunches are pressed and fermentation proceeds slowly, enhancing aromas, color, and elegant tannins.
Then the wine rests: 12 months in second-passage French barriques . Not first-passage (too aggressive), but second-passage. Just enough to add complexity without overshadowing the grape's character.
Finally, the blend includes Groppello, vinified in stainless steel. This is the perfect touch: the Groppello brings freshness and vivacity, balancing the power of the dried grapes. The result? A red wine from Valtènesi that's both elegant and structured.
A further six months of bottle aging before release. Total: almost two years from grape to glass.
Intense and brilliant ruby red color – just looking at it you understand that it is not a light red.
On the nose: vinous and fruity, with hints of undergrowth, blackberry jam, raspberry, and spices , accompanied by elegant hints of cocoa . Those cocoa notes are a gift from the barriques, but they're not overpowering. They're there, subtle, elegant.
On the palate: savory, rounded, balanced , with excellent structure and elegance. The tannins are well-integrated, and the finish is harmonious. This isn't a wine that knocks you down; it's a wine that stays with you.
This 2018 Sofai Bio DOP is captivating with its complexity and persistence. It's not a wine to be drunk casually; it's a wine that deserves attention.
Temperature: 18-20°C . Uncork at least an hour in advance; this Lake Garda red wine needs to breathe.
Pairings that work:
It's the perfect accompaniment to the rich dishes of the Garda tradition, the ones grandma used to make on Sundays, when the whole family gathered around the table.
Organic means certified organic farming. No chemical pesticides, no synthetic fertilizers. Just respect for the land.
DOP Valtènesi means Protected Designation of Origin. Grapes grown in a specific area, following precise rules and rigorous controls. A guarantee of quality and authenticity.
They're not just labels to put on bottles. They're choices that make a difference.
Because the Sofai 2018 Bio DOP combines history, tradition, and the unique terroir of Lake Garda . Because it's a red wine from Valtènesi that's characterful without being aggressive, complex without being complicated.
Because when you drink it, you taste the history of that place "under the beech trees," where farmers once rested and now vineyards grow. Because it's organic and DOP, and that's what counts.
And simply because it is a great Garda red that deserves to be discovered.
If you have any questions about the production process or organic certification, please contact us! We're happy to discuss wines with a story to tell.
Ready to discover Sofai 2018? The wine born under the beech trees.
Pickup currently not available
To protect the environment from which our jewels are born!
For the highest quality
We ship throughout Europe. Products arrive within 4 to 8 business days, depending on the destination.
Write to: info@feelgarda.com to find out the status of your order!
FeelGarda has selected the finest wines from Lake Garda for you. The products were chosen after careful consideration of tradition, sustainability, and quality.
Don't miss the latest offers on our exclusive Lake Garda products.
