Palio del Chiaretto in Bardolino - Chiaretto Rosé wine festival
The "Palio del Chiaretto" is one of the most famous wine festivals on Lake Garda. Every year, the lakeside promenade of Bardolino transforms into a grand stage for enjoyment, wine, and Italian joie de vivre in early summer. The focus is on Chiaretto – a fresh, light rosé wine produced directly on Lake Garda. But the event offers much more than just wine: music, culinary delights, regional specialties, and a unique atmosphere right by the water.
What is the Palio del Chiaretto?
Origin & significance of the festival
The term "Palio" originally comes from Central Italy and refers to a festive folk race. In Bardolino, however, the word has taken on its own meaning: the "Palio del Chiaretto" is a festival in honour of Chiaretto wine, which has become one of the most important events on the southeastern shore of Lake Garda.
The event was created to celebrate the region's wine tradition and provide a platform for local producers. Today, it is a meeting point for wine connoisseurs, vacationers, and families alike.
The Chiaretto grape variety – the Rosé from Lake Garda
Chiaretto is a rosé wine made from the same grapes as the famous Bardolino red wine: Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara. Its special feature lies in the short contact time with the grape skins, which gives it its delicate colour and fresh taste. It is dry, fruity, and goes perfectly with Mediterranean dishes. A perfect summer wine!
When & where does the festival take place?
Current dates & times
This year, the Palio del Chiaretto in Bardolino takes place from 30 May to 2 June 2025. It spans three days, from Friday to Sunday. The event starts in the morning and continues into the night.
Event locations in Bardolino
The heart of the festival is the lakeside promenade of Bardolino. Here, one wine tent follows the next, accompanied by music stages, food stalls, and handicrafts.
Additional program highlights take place in Parco Carrara Bottagisio and the historic city centre.
Highlights of the Palio del Chiaretto
Wine tasting along the lakeside promenade
Around 20 local wineries present their Chiaretto in stylish tasting stands. Visitors can sample the various flavours, talk directly to the winemakers, and take home a bottle or two as souvenirs. Tasting glasses and vouchers are available at the entrance for a small fee.
Music, culture & entertainment
The supporting program includes live music – from jazz to Italian pop to DJ sets, street performers, and evening light installations. Families with children can look forward to face painting, craft stations, and much more.
The Chiaretto Wine in detail
Production & special features
Chiaretto is produced using the "Saignée" method – a short "bleeding" of the red wine grapes. This method ensures the typical delicate rosé colour and fine aroma. Some winemakers are now focusing on organic cultivation, which has further increased the variety and quality.
Taste & serving suggestions
- Fresh, fruity with notes of strawberry, cherry, and citrus
- Dry and light – ideal at a drinking temperature of 8-10 °C
- Perfect with: fish, antipasti, pasta with tomato sauce, summer dishes
Insider tips for connoisseurs
- Be sure to try the Chiaretto Spumante – a sparkling alternative
- Great wine shops with rarities can be found in the small side streets
- Enjoying a glass of Chiaretto on the lakeshore at sunset is unforgettable!
Discover Bardolino – Combining is worth it!
Boat tours, hikes & excursions
Those travelling to the Palio del Chiaretto should combine their visit with other highlights in the region:
- Boat tour to Sirmione or Garda – directly from Bardolino
- Hike to Rocca di Garda – with spectacular views
- Visit to the Zeni Wine Museum – exciting and educational
This makes the visit not only a pleasure for the palate but also for the heart and soul.