It was the summer of 1918 when Ernest Hemingway, then a young American journalist, arrived in Veneto, specifically in Schio, to follow the final developments of World War I. That experience, marked by the drama and adrenaline of war, was the beginning of a journey that would bind the great writer to Italy, making him a frequent visitor and an authentic cultural ambassador until the last days of his life.
The Journeys That Inspired a Great Writer
From his very first trips to Italy, Hemingway was captivated by the richness of the landscape, the millennia-old history, and, above all, the winemaking tradition of the Bel Paese. The Venetian countryside, with its neatly arranged vineyards and cellars preserving ancient secrets, left an indelible mark on his sensibility. Valpolicella, in particular, became more than just a wine for him—it represented a symbol of conviviality, authenticity, and that slow yet profound art of living so typical of Italy.
One of the most significant episodes in his relationship with wine and Italy took place in the autumn of 1948. On that occasion, Hemingway, together with his wife Mary, chose the evocative setting of Locanda Cipriani, located on the small island of Torcello in Venice. In an atmosphere almost suspended in time, the great writer spent the entire month of November working on his novel Across the River and Into the Trees, which would be published two years later, in 1950. It is fascinating to imagine how, within the ancient walls of the inn and the tranquil reflection of the lagoon waters, Hemingway found inspiration not only in the beauty of the landscape but also in the warmth of a good glass of Italian wine.
The Ritual of Valpolicella
It is said that, during those moments of intense creative concentration, Hemingway’s silent companion was several cases of Valpolicella. It was not merely an enjoyable accompaniment but a true ritual: wine was an integral part of his daily life, an element capable of stimulating the senses and evoking precious memories. In his novel, the protagonist, infantry Colonel Richard Cantwell, is described savoring Valpolicella, calling it "a light, dry, red wine, as friendly as the house of a brother you get along with." This description, rich in familiarity and warmth, significantly contributed to spreading the fame of Valpolicella in the United States, ensuring that the wine was appreciated even beyond Italian borders.
Valpolicella: A Symbol of Land and Tradition
But what makes Valpolicella so special? Its origins are deeply rooted in a land rich in history and traditions, where the sun, climate, and soil create ideal conditions for cultivating high-quality grapes. The Valpolicella region, located in the eastern part of the province of Verona, is renowned for producing wines that range from young and fruity reds to more complex and structured aged wines. The Corvina grape variety, often accompanied by Rondinella and Molinara, is the beating heart of these wines, giving them that unique character that makes them unmistakable.
With his passion for wine, Hemingway knew how to recognize in each glass a story, a tale that went far beyond simple tasting. For him, Valpolicella was synonymous with conviviality, encounters, and cultural exchanges. It was the ideal companion for evenings when time seemed suspended, allowing words to flow and emotions to emerge without filters. Through his pages, Hemingway conveyed that sense of intimacy and belonging that only an authentic wine can evoke, uniting different cultures and creating a bridge between America and Italy.
Hemingway’s legacy in the world of wine is still celebrated today by enthusiasts and expert winemakers. His enthusiasm for Valpolicella has inspired many producers to enhance this territorial excellence, focusing on traditional methods and meticulous attention to quality. Every bottle of Valpolicella tells a story of passion, dedication, and love for the land—elements that Hemingway had understood and embraced since his first journeys in Veneto.
A Bridge Between Cultures
Beyond the enological aspect, the bond between Hemingway and Valpolicella represents an example of how wine can be a catalyst for experiences and reflections. In an increasingly globalized society, where cultural differences seem to become more pronounced, wine remains one of the few elements capable of breaking down barriers and creating genuine connections. Hemingway’s words, imbued with passion and sincerity, remind us that every sip of Valpolicella is an invitation to discover and appreciate diversity, to find common ground where stories intertwine and traditions are renewed.
Today, tasting a glass of Valpolicella means not only savoring a quality wine but also immersing oneself in a world of history, culture, and beauty. It is an invitation to rediscover the roots of a land that, through the challenges of time, has managed to maintain its charm and authenticity intact. And, in a way, every bottle becomes a tribute to the men and women who, with dedication and passion, have made Valpolicella a symbol of excellence in the world of wine.
