Polpenazze wine festival
Wine and flavor by Lake Garda
The Polpenazze Wine Festival, one of the most anticipated events on Lake Garda, celebrates the winemaking excellence of the Valtenesi region each spring. Known for producing some of Lombardy’s finest wines, this renowned festival — rooted in the area's agricultural tradition since the 1940s — invites visitors to discover and taste local wines like the prestigious Garda Classico and Chiaretto, all within the enchanting setting of the Garda hills.
The Polpenazze wine festival
The Polpenazze Wine Festival is more than just a local fair; it’s a cultural event offering a full-fledged gastronomic and oenological experience.
Visitors can participate in tastings, speak directly with dozens of producers, learn the secrets of winemaking from experts and immerse themselves in the rich winemaking traditions of the Valtenesi region. All of this unfolds in the picturesque setting of Polpenazze’s historic center, right in front of the town’s church.
Tasting Garda Classico, Chiaretto & More
The vineyards of Polpenazze and the surrounding areas produce some of the most beloved red, white and rosé wines, thanks to Lake Garda’s mild climate and the unique soil composition. The festival’s undisputed star is Garda Classico DOC, a robust and flavorful wine made from native grapes like Groppello, an ancient and prized variety that defines the region’s winemaking identity.
The Polpenazze Wine Festival is particularly famous for its tasting trail, featuring Garda Classico, Chiaretto (the renowned rosé wine of Valtenesi) and other local wines. Chiaretto, with its fresh and delicate profile, is celebrated for its balance of fruity and floral notes, making it the perfect pairing for summer dishes and evenings outdoors by Lake Garda.
Upon purchasing an entry ticket, guests receive a tasting glass and gain access to guided tastings led by expert sommeliers or the producers themselves. These sessions allow participants to discover the unique characteristics of each wine and learn to identify their key attributes.
Where the Polpenazze Wine Festival Takes Place
The festival typically hosts around 25 wineries, showcasing nearly 200 different wine labels.
The event is set in the historic heart of Polpenazze, with numerous stalls scattered throughout the village streets. Unlike a conventional trade fair, this festival is held on the scenic hills of the Garda region. The ancient streets and breathtaking views of Lake Garda make the event a truly unforgettable experience, highly recommended by locals.
What to Eat at the Festival
The Polpenazze Wine Festival isn’t just about wine; it also highlights the flavors of traditional Brescian cuisine, particularly in the Corte degli Assaggi, an area dedicated to food trucks and gastronomy. Visitors can sample a wide array of regional specialties from local producers, including cheeses, cured meats, extra virgin olive oil and traditional sweets.
Signature dishes include spiedo bresciano — a classic dish of mixed meats slowly cooked on a rotisserie — as well as casoncelli (stuffed pasta), bread with salami and bread with melted cheese. These delicacies pair beautifully with the finest Valtenesi wines.
Beyond the food and wine, the festival offers a variety of side events, including live music performances, art exhibitions, evening DJ sets, wine competitions and activities for children.
Credits: Arianna Bosio
