Cortina d'Ampezzo's history stretches back to prehistoric times, with subsequent Celtic, Roman, and medieval influences. For nearly 400 years, the town and surrounding Ampezzo Valley were part of the Austrian Empire, retaining a unique blend of Ladin, Tyrolean, and Italian cultures. The late 19th century saw the arrival of wealthy British and German tourists, drawn by the dramatic Dolomite scenery and local craftsmanship. After World War I, Cortina was ceded to Italy and experienced a tourism boom, especially following the 1956 Winter Olympics, which transformed it into a world-famous, glamorous destination for the international jet-set and a frequent backdrop for Hollywood films.
In the world of Italian wine, Cortina's place is defined by its role as a premier consumer and a gateway to significant wine regions, rather than a production center itself. Due to its high altitude and alpine climate, commercial viticulture is not prominent in the immediate valley, which historically focused on timber and pastoral farming. However, the town is a paradise for food and wine lovers, with numerous fine-dining restaurants and sophisticated wine bars (enotecas) offering extensive cellars filled with selections from the nearby, famed wine-growing areas of Veneto (home to Prosecco, Valpolicella and Amarone) Lombardia, (famous for Franciacorta and Nebbiolo from the Valtellina) and Trentino-Alto Adige (known for Pinot Grigio and Lagrein). This proximity allows Cortina to offer a rich, curated Italian wine experience to its elite visitors.
Enjoy a small selection of our favorite wines & spirits as we celebrate Cortina!