Zardetto’s vineyards are located in the hilly eastern part of Conegliano Valdobbiadene DOCG, close to the villages of Feletto, Ogliano, and Carpesica. Porta Monticano (also known as the Porta del Leone or “Lion’s Gate”) is one of the main gates in the ancient wall that surrounds the medieval town of Conegliano. It takes its formal name from the Monticano River that flows nearby, and its de facto title from its design: a painting of San Marco’s lion, the symbol of the Republic of Venice.

For centuries, this part of the town has been surrounded by dozens of small wine bars. There, Conegliano locals mix with visitors for a glass of wine. It’s the casual, friendly attitude of this neighbourhood that inspired the Spumanti Porta Monticano. It is a blend of an indigenous varietal you know (Glera, the traditional grape of Prosecco) and a few you most likely don’t (Incrocio Manzoni, Verdiso, and Boschera), this sparkling wine is fresh and a bit savoury. Undeniably tasty, you will find that it is a little fuller than the winery’s Prosecco. Pour as an aperitif or alongside a generous platter of prosciutto and cheese.