The estate takes its name from the Rugate hillside, which bears most of the Tessari family's vines. This gently sloping hill is ideally suited to wine production by virtue of its aspect, microclimate and soil.

The estate comprises 30 hectares, 25 of them in the Soave Classico zone, in the commune of Monteforte d'Alpone, and 5 in the Valpolicella zone, in Montecchia di Crosara.

The Tessari family believe that the wine is made first in the vineyard, and go to great lengths to encourage aromatic development in the grapes. Short pruning and experimental trellising are used to extract the best each grape has to offer, whether Garganega and Trebbiano for Soave, or Corvina and Rondinella for Valpolicella.

The vineyard work is complemented by the winery's treatment of the harvest. Gentle crushing and temperature controlled fermentations are used to ensure the purest expression of the grape..

Appellation: Soave Classico

Area of Production: Monforte d'Alpone

Soil: clay and basaltic on volcanic hills                                                               

Grape varities: 100% Garganega

Harvest: End of September

Production Levels: 12,500 cases

Tasting Notes: Straw-yellow, delicate and intense bouquet of wildflowers (chamomile,elder, iris). The palate is refreshing and balanced, with an almondy finish.

Food Matches: Serve at 10-12 C. Ideal as an aperitif, it is well-suited to lighter meat and fish dishes.

Technical Notes: Alcohol - 12%

Total acidity - .5 grams / liter

Net extract - 20 grams / liter