Island of Sant'Erasmo: the land of vineyards in Venice
Just a few minutes by vaporetto (water bus) from the heart of Venice, a world opens up that appears suspended in time, made of silence, lush vegetable gardens and vineyards: this is Sant'Erasmo, the island-vegetable garden of the Serenissima, forever the cradle of top quality agricultural products for the lagoon city. However, side by side with its castraùre – the precious violet artichokes harvested in spring - and its seasonal vegetables, nowadays Sant'Erasmo is also the stage for a wine-growing and producing rebirth. It is the largest of the islands in the northern lagoon and the only one, where you can ride your bike everywhere. A network of cycle and pedestrian ways runs through cultivated fields and vineyards scattered in geometric shapes across the countryside.
The rebirth of wine in the Venice lagoon
Venice has always been a land of vineyards. From the time of the Serenissima, wine growing has continued not only on the mainland, but also on many lagoon islands. These definitely include Sant'Erasmo. Recently, thanks to the commitment of the consortium, Consorzio Vini Venezia, we have seen the rediscovery of ancient, local grape varieties and a new generation of dedicated winegrowers. The project linked to the Dorona di Venezia, a rare grape variety of which only a very few examples have survived, stands out above all. It has been re-established in symbolic places, such as the island of Mazzorbo - where it is grown on the Venissa estate - and especially on the island of Sant'Erasmo.
Intrepid vineyards and extraordinary tales
Today there are two wine-producing companies of special interest on the island of Sant'Erasmo. The first is a winery, which has been awarded the rare authorisation to produce Prosecco. Definitely an unusual, yet courageous choice. The second story centres around the eccentric multi-millionaire Frenchman, Michel Toulouze, who fell in love with a dilapidated property while on holiday in Venice and decided to purchase and transform it into a winery with the help of some expert friends. He resolved to produce a superior quality label named "Orto" (the same name as the winery), hand-produced in very limited quantities. What is so unusual about it? Underwater ageing, an ancient technique that increases its fascination and uniqueness.
For those interested in learning more about the history of the vineyards of Venice, we recommend reading the article dedicated to the evocative vineyard of the Discalced Carmelites: read the article → click here
Ca’ Lucrezia is looking forward to seeing you in Venice
The island of Sant'Erasmo is a beautiful place to escape from the chaos of Venice, to be experienced slowly, preferably holding a glass of wine. Surrounded by history and nature and suspended over the water, it offers not only local products, but also events, festivals and themed visits throughout the year. This is why we are happy to recommend this alternative destination to our guests.
For further information: www.calucrezia.it