Show and Tell: Opera 02 in Castelvetro di Modena

This past summer as we made our way back to Rome from Piedmont, we stayed a night at the stunning Opera 02, an organic Lambrusco vineyard and cellar, as well as agriturismo (farmstay) in Castelvetro di Modena, just on the outskirts of Modena.

While driving towards Opera 02, we were treated to some of the most amazing spectacular landscapes, ones which could rival Tuscany. Tucked at the end of a gravel road, Opera 02 is paradise and during our stay we had the opportunity to speak with the owner, Mattia Montanari, who shared the history of Opera 02 and the challenges of the wine business.

Here are some of my favorite photos from our visit and insights from our chat with Mattia.

6 Favorite Photos of Opera 02 in Castelvetro di Modena

1. There are vineyard-covered rolling hills here too in Castelvetro in Modena. Though little known, this area grows Grasparossa grapes used to make Lambrusco, a sparkling red wine. Opera 02, a family business, was setup in 2002, and in 2005, they decided to focus on the the production of organic wines. The name Opera was chosen as it’s the family’s show and also as a tribute to Luciano Pavarotti who was born in the vicinity.

2. I couldn’t get enough of the views here which are mesmerizing and equally so is the story of Opera 02. In 2002, they started with only 5 hectares of vineyard and today the property covers an area of 45 hectares.

It has been a challenging journey and Mattia, like most wine producers in Italy, also had shared that this year has been particularly so due to the unusually rainy summer in Italy. He has lost 45% of his crops and accepts that it’s going to be a tough one. However, he still remains optimistic about the future despite being at the mercy of the elements.

3. In 2005, they expanded the business when they bought a cowshed and converted it to an an agriturismo (accommodations) and a vinegar loft. They offer only 8 modern, spacious and tastefully decorated rooms boasting views that are second to none, as you can see from the photo above. The rooms are situated along the corridor next the the vinegar loft.

4. Looking for a place to getaway? This couldn’t be more perfect! The weather held up for us and we were able to enjoy some pool time. At Opera 02 there also have a spa next to the pool equipped with a sauna and an area to have some quiet time.

5. Here in Castelvetro di Modena, the sunset also didn’t fail to impress. This place just has it all.

6. Opera 02 boasts a stellar restaurant that serves some creative cuisine from the area while still holding to tradition. We were treated to a phenomenal 5-course meal paired with their wines.

One of the most outstanding dishes was the Risotto all’Aceto Balsamico su fonduta di Parmigiano-Reggiano. Divine and the good news is I have the recipe and will be trying this dish out – of course, I will be sharing the recipe here in the near future.

Here’s also a short video to give you a glance of this beautiful place.

Special thanks to Emilia-Romagna Turismo who kindly made the arrangements for our stay and to Mattia for taking the time to show us around the property and looking after the details during our stay at Opera 02.