Bardolino is a region in between places. The wines of this region seem to draw inspiration from places next door. To the north, Monte Baldo looks over the entrance to the Valdadige and the Alto Adige region, from where we get fresh, mountain-crisp acidity. To the west, the Mediterranean warmth of Lake Garda tempers the climate and softens the wines. To the east the hills of the Valpolicella region curve towards the sunrise, and inspires the sun-bright red fruitiness found in Bardolino’s blends of Corvina and Rondinella. Matilde Poggi grew up amongst vineyards, and began helping with harvests in 1984. Today, Matilde and her daughters are among the best winemakers in the DOC. Their winery is small scale, and they only make wine from what they grow organically. Free of oak and other invasive practices, the wine is pure, gentle, and approachable. Aromas of cherry blossom, cranberry and blueberry with a dash of underbrush and pepper. The palate is juicy and mouthwatering, with fresh cherries, strawberries and huckleberries before a touch of clay and orange on the finish. This is a nearly ideal pairing for Thanksgiving, but it’s a pleasant match for almost any occasion.