ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Zenato Wines: A journey through Italian excellence

Ever sipped a wine that transported you straight to the sun-drenched shores of Lake Garda? That's the magic of Zenato Wines for you. This family-owned gem from Italy's Veneto region has been turning heads in the wine world for over six decades, and for good reason. 

Let's rewind to 1960. While the world was grooving to Elvis and the Beatles, Sergio Zenato and his wife Carla were laying the foundation of what would become a vinous empire. Talk about a passion project! Sergio had this crazy idea that the Lugana and Valpolicella regions could produce some seriously good vino. Spoiler alert: he was right. 

Fast forward to today, and Zenato's reputation is as solid as the morainic soils their vines grow in. The Zenato kids, Alberto and Nadia, are now at the helm, keeping Dad's dream alive while adding their own modern twist. 

So, what's the secret sauce? It's all about location, location, location. Zenato's vineyards are spread across two prime spots. First up, we've got Lugana, right on Lake Garda's southern shores. This is where they grow Trebbiano di Lugana grapes. The lake works its magic, creating this unique microclimate that the grapes just love. The result? Whites that are crisper than a freshly ironed shirt. 

Then there's Valpolicella. Rolling hills, clay and limestone soils — it's like nature designed it specifically for growing grapes like Corvina, Rondinella, and Oseleta. These are the bad boys that go into making those bold reds that Zenato's famous for. 

Now, let's talk about how they make the stuff. Zenato's not about cutting corners. They're still hand-picking grapes like it's 1960. For some wines, like their Amarone, they even let the grapes take a little vacation, drying them out to concentrate the flavors. It's called appassimento, and it's partly why Amarone costs what it does (but trust me, it's worth every penny). 

Zenato's got quite the wine lineup. Their Lugana San Benedetto is like summer in a glass — all citrusy and peachy with a mineral kick. But the real showstopper? The Amarone della Valpolicella Classico. This is the wine equivalent of a bear hug — big, bold, and leaves a lasting impression. Flavors of dried fruit and spice, with a hint of chocolate. It's the kind of wine that makes you cancel your plans and stay in for the night. 

For those not ready to dive into the deep end of Amarone, there's the Ripassa Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore. Wine geeks call it "baby Amarone". It's got the same idea, but a bit lighter on the wallet and the palate. 

Why should you care about Zenato? Well, if you're into wines that taste like where they're from, Zenato's got you covered. They're all about showcasing what Veneto can do. Plus, they've got options for every budget. You can go big with their top-shelf stuff or find some really good value in their everyday drinkers. 

And let's not forget the bragging rights. Zenato's been racking up awards like nobody's business. Tre Bicchieri awards (that's a big deal in Italy), 90+ point scores from wine critics — you name it, they've probably won it. 

Look, at the end of the day, wine's supposed to be fun. And that's what Zenato delivers. Whether you're a wine newbie or a seasoned pro, there's something in their range that'll make you sit up and take notice. So next time you're in the wine shop, do yourself a favor and grab a bottle of Zenato — it also happens to be on special this week. Your taste buds will thank you.

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Laura Olson is co-owner of Base Camp Wine & Co. (formerly The Dinner Party) along with her partner, Joe Petersen. You can also follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/#!/dinnerpartyshop or visit www.basecampwine.com.