Valtènesi stretches west of Lake Garda, between Desenzano and Salò, across a large plateau situated at an altitude of 200 metres, surrounded by the moraine hills that characterise the southern part of the lake. Cantrina is a tiny rural hamlet in this area, located in the municipality of Bedizzole, in the Brescia hinterland of Lake Garda. It is also the name of the remarkable winery owned by Cristina Inganni and Diego Lavo, founded in 1999.
This is a small but high-profile, strictly family-run estate that has adhered to a clear philosophy from its inception: maximum environmental respect, agronomic and winemaking choices aimed at highlighting the characteristics of individual soils, and a personal concept of quality, care, and creativity. The intent is clear: to produce wines that are not only delicious but also capable of narrating the story of this part of Lombardy, sometimes resting on lake clays, at other times on glacial debris. Since 2014, the estate has been fully organic, prioritising sustainable and low-impact practices, with minimal use of sulphites, the use of indigenous yeasts, minimal filtration only when necessary, and lightweight bottles.
The best value-for-money wine in Lombardy, according to the "Berebene 2025" Guide
The range of labels offered by Cantrina revolves around naturalness, integrity, and respect for the territory. Representing these values is the Riviera del Garda Classico Groppello '23, which has been awarded the prize for the best value-for-money wine in the region in the Gambero Rosso Berebene 2025 guide. It also earned Due Bicchieri Rossi in the Vini d’Italia 2025 guide by Gambero Rosso, having reached the finals.
The quintessential red grape of Brescia’s Lake Garda area, vinified in purity—or more precisely, as a blend of 90% Groppello Gentile and 10% Groppello di Mocasina—gives rise to a delightfully fresh and fragrant wine. It is savoury and airy, marked by frank aromas of redcurrant and raspberry, clear in its ruby red colour, and light on the palate. Its harmonious and pleasant nature makes it difficult to stop at just one glass.
Photo by www.cantrina.it/
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