Contra Soarda', which translates to ‘hamlet on the slope’, is an environmentally-conscious winery just outside the Venetian town of Bassano del Grappa, that was founded by Mirco and Gloria Gottardi in 2002. Their cellar, described as an architectural wonder, is built inside the hills to lower their imprint using geothermal climate control and won the International Prize Dedalo Minosse for Architecture in 2006 for its innovative zero-impact design! Gaggion is 100% Marzemino Nero, a lesser-known, indigenous varietal grown in alluvial pebble-enriched volcanic soil. The wine is fermented spontaneously with native yeast in stainless steel followed by aging in neutral French barrique for 12 months. The result is a vibrant, medium-bodied red with wild blackberry flavors, impeccable minerality and crisp acidity with firm, dry tannins. Perfect for leftover pulled-pork ragu, or a pesto panini with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes and grilled chicken.