Veneto, The Region of the Finest Wine and Caviar in Italy

Nestled in the northeastern corner of Italy, Veneto is one of the country’s 20 distinguished regions. Rich in history, it was once a key territory within the Roman Empire until the fall of the West in the 5th century and subsequently flourished as an integral part of the powerful Republic of Venice until its dissolution in 1797. Today, Veneto is home to approximately 4.8 million people, spread across 7 captivating cities: Venice, Verona, Vicenza, Padua, Treviso, Rovigo, and Belluno. While Venice undoubtedly draws the world’s attention, the entire region is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be explored.

The iconic Grand Canal in Venice, renowned as one of the most picturesque and romantic waterways in the world. (Photo Credit: iStockphoto)

The Heart of Wine and Caviar

While Veneto’s cultural and architectural heritage is globally renowned, the region also boasts a rich reputation for fine wine production. Verona’s Valpolicella area is especially famed for its signature red wine “Allegrini Amarone,” a bold and complex wine revered by connoisseurs worldwide. Veneto is also home to “Prosecco,” a light, effervescent sparkling wine that has earned the affectionate moniker “Italian Champagne.”

The Valpolicella region of Verona is defined by its undulating hills and lush, fertile valleys. (Photo Credit: iStockphoto)

Equally impressive is the region’s exceptional caviar, particularly from the esteemed Caviar Giaveri farm. Located in Veneto’s pristine countryside, the farm is renowned for its unique approach to sturgeon farming, using mineral-rich spring water to nurture its prized fish. The result is exquisite caviar, including the renowned “Beluga,” a delicately smooth black variety known for its exquisite taste; “Siberian Classic,” stands out for its lovely texture and freshness; “Osietra,” golden and luxurious; and “Sevruga,” a smaller, more decadent caviar with a rich, velvety flavor.

Caviar, derived from the Persian word for “seasoned fish eggs,” is a luxurious delicacy renowned for its delicate flavor profile. Crafted from the finest roe, it is seasoned with a precisely balanced salt, neither overwhelming nor too subtle, allowing the natural taste of the fish eggs to shine. To preserve its exceptional quality and achieve its signature mellow richness, caviar is meticulously stored at a temperature of -10°C, ensuring an unparalleled tasting experience. (Photo Credit: iStockphoto)

After indulging in the region’s world-class wines and caviar, venture beyond Venice to discover Veneto’s many other wonders.

Verona: The city of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet beckons with its medieval charm. Visit the “Casa di Giulietta,” where the legendary love story unfolds, and do not forget to touch the bronze statue’s heart for a dose of romance. Explore the ancient “Arena di Verona,” a Roman amphitheater built in 573 AD, which predates the Colosseum in Rome. Take a moment to sip a coffee in Piazza delle Erbe, framed by historic buildings and the iconic Madonna Verona fountain.

Vicenza: Stroll across the “Ponte degli Alpini,” a wooden bridge first built in 1209, which has weathered floods and World War II but still stands as a testament to Vicenza’s resilience. The bridge spans the Brenta River, offering a picturesque view of the surrounding landscape.

Belluno: Before venturing into the rugged beauty of the Dolomites, make a stop in the idyllic village of “Alleghe” covering a modest 29 square kilometers. Set on the serene shores of a quiet lake, Alleghe offers an escape into nature’s splendor, often likened to the beauty of Austria’s Hallstatt, but with a distinctly Italian charm.

Curator’s Recommendation: Thai Airways has carefully selected the finest Amarone wine from Italy and premium caviar from Caviar Giaveri Farm. Osietra caviar is served in Royal First Class, while Siberian Classic caviar is available to Royal Silk Class passengers. To further elevate your travel experience, from December to February, Beluga Siberian caviar, the pinnacle of caviar excellence, is available for Royal First Class passengers. (Caviar is served on Thai Airways flights from Bangkok to Europe)

Plan to visit Veneto? Fly to Milan with Thai Airways