Custoza makes its case as Italy’s next great white

A DOC with growing momentum

Despite producing over 11 million bottles a year, Custoza remains relatively underappreciated outside Italy. Yet momentum is building. Producers from the hills between Lake Garda and Verona are increasingly confident that their crisp, aromatic whites are poised to gain ground internationally – particularly in the UK.

“Drinkability must be the first focus,” said Francesco Piona, winemaker at Cavalchina. That focus on freshness and balance has long made Custoza a favourite in Germany – the denomination’s biggest export market – but producers now see new opportunity in Britain. Cavalchina, for example, already produces Pinot Grigio for Harrods, a sign that the UK market, including premium listings, is increasingly opening its doors to Veneto whites.

Custoza, which has been a DOC since 1971, covers 1,400 hectares and brings together 480 growers and 72 winemakers. Around 30% of vineyards are certified organic or sustainable. Wines must include at least 70% of local grapes such as Garganega, Bianca Fernanda, Trebbianello and Trebbiano Toscano, resulting in delicate, fruit-driven wines defined by freshness and subtle floral aromatics.

Experimentation and expression

Custoza Riserva wines are becoming a particular talking point. “I strongly believe in Custoza Riserva,” said Piona. “They allow us to increasingly experiment.” Producers are trialling oak aging and Chardonnay blending, while others focus on extended ageing periods to build complexity.

At Gorgo winery, Roberta Bricolo, president of the Consorzio Tutela Vino Custoza DOC and CEO, is also exploring a Riserva range, but without oak. “We want to preserve the delicate nature of Garganega and Cortese,” she told db. “Germany remains our biggest export market after Italy, but there is real opportunity to break further into the UK – it’s just a case of the right marketing.”

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At Tenuta La Presa, however, oak is part of the conversation. “We do experiment with American oak,” said Enrico Gamberoni, hospitality manager at the estate. “Some winemakers believe Custoza doesn’t need oak, but it’s personal choice – experimentation is what keeps the denomination moving forward.” 

Producers also look to the success of Gavi as an example of how strong, unified marketing can elevate a regional white. “From the success of Gavi and Abruzzo rosé, we learn the value of a clear and consistent identity, aligned with quality and price positioning,” said Mattia Pasqualotto, export manager at Montezovo winery. “Their growth also highlights the importance of coordinated promotion by consortia and producers, creating a strong collective brand internationally.”

The UK opportunity

For many Custoza producers, the UK remains relatively untapped. While smaller wineries focus their exports elsewhere, some larger players already have a foothold. Vitevis, for instance, sends 70% of its production to the UK, supplying supermarkets like Co-op and various smaller distributors.

With global demand for lighter styles continuing to rise, producers agree that the timing is right. Custoza’s combination of freshness, authenticity and versatility could finally give it the international recognition it deserves.