In the heart of the hills of Piacenza, where time seems to stand still among cobblestone alleys and towers that tell medieval stories, one can already breathe in the festive atmosphere that will invade Castell'Arquato - a jewel set in the lands of Emilia and the pride of the Italian Touring Club's Orange Flag - on the occasion of the 11th edition of the Monterosso Val d'Arda Festival, scheduled for the weekend of April 27 and 28, 2024.
The event is a true tribute to Monterosso Val d'Arda DOC, an indigenous white wine that stands out for being fresh and light in its classic version, lively as sparkling and elegantly bubbly in its spumante variant. This precious nectar, made from typical local grapes such as Ortrugo, Malvasia di Candia Aromatica, Moscato Bianco and Trebbiano Romagnolo, tells its story through a straw-yellow color and floral and fruity notes that delight the palate.
The festival will offer a program full of guided tastings, cultural meetings, wine masterclasses, show cooking with local chefs, concerts, art exhibitions, sustainable initiatives and much more, in an effort to revive traditions with cheerfulness and an eye toward the future.
About 30 local wineries will be ready to welcome enthusiasts and the curious along the scenic "barrique cellar," an ancient stone street that will become a crossroads of flavors, art and music for the occasion. Guests will also have the opportunity to explore the beauty of the village, from its fascinating castles to its famous fortresses, as well as visit the farms that embody the rural and authentic essence of this land.
The Monterosso Val d'Arda Festival is more than just a wine festival: it is a celebration of the cultural and gastronomic identity of Castell'Arquato and the Val d'Arda, an invitation to discover and appreciate the treasures of an area rich in history and nature.
The event, eagerly awaited by young people, women and families, aims to share and spread awareness not only of Monterosso wine, but also of the region's other wine and gastronomic excellences, such as Malvasia di Candia Aromatica and Piacenza PDO cured meats.
With the patronage of local institutions and the goal of contributing to the reduction of environmental impact, the festival has earned the #Plastic-freER recognition, which testifies to the organizers' commitment to sustainable practices.
All that remains is to mark on the calendar the dates of April 27 and 28, 2024, and get ready to immerse yourself in the sensory and cultural universe of one of the most fascinating food and wine festivals in the Emilia-Romagna region.