Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore (2019) - Bronzato

The Ripasso method is traditional in Valpolicella: it consists of "re-passing" the wine over the Amarone skins, giving structure, warmth and intensity. Bronzato is a nationally distributed brand, which also produces Amarone and Recioto with excellent value for money.

The appellation: Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore DOC

Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore DOC is one of the most distinctive expressions of Valpolicella, in the Veneto, made using a unique technique that "repasses" the base Valpolicella wine over the pomace of Amarone or Recioto. This process gives the wine greater body, structure, alcohol and aromatic complexity, turning it into an enveloping, velvety red that is much appreciated both in Italy and abroad. The "Superiore" designation means a higher minimum alcohol level (at least 12% vol) and a minimum ageing period of 12 months, which heightens its depth and longevity.

What to eat with Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore

Who makes it: Bronzato

Bronzato Wine is a family-run winery in Montorio, in the north-eastern part of Verona, in the heart of Valpolicella. Founded by Massimo Bronzato, the estate was born of a passion for viticulture and a desire to champion the area's native grapes. Although a young venture, Bronzato Wine stands out for its attention to quality and its respect for the environment. Its production philosophy rests on: Respect for nature: sustainable farming practices and minimal intervention in the vineyard and the cellar. Artisan production: every bottle is the result of meticulous, passionate work. Bringing out the terroir: wines that express the distinctive characteristics of the local soil and climate.

The vine of Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore

Corvina

Corvina is a black grape variety native to the Veneto, considered the main variety in the production of some of the region’s most celebrated wines, including Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG, Recioto della Valpolicella DOCG and Valpolicella DOC. It is characterised by vibrant acidity, elegant tannins and an aromatic profile rich in red fruit, spices and floral nuances.

Rondinella

Rondinella is a black grape variety native to Veneto, historically used in the blends of Valpolicella, Bardolino and Amarone della Valpolicella. Rarely vinified as a single variety, it is a complementary variety to Corvina, to which it brings colour, resistance and freshness.

Corvinone

Corvinone is a native black grape variety of the Veneto, often confused with Corvina Veronese, but now recognised as a distinct and independent variety. Prized for its contribution to colour, structure and longevity in wines, it is one of the pillars of the Valpolicella, above all in the production of Amarone della Valpolicella, Recioto and Ripasso. Corvinone is often used in blends with Corvina, Rondinella and other minor varieties to obtain complex, powerful reds, but in modern winemaking it can also be used as a single variety, or nearly so, in order to express its character to the full.

Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore: the area

Climate: Continental

Altitude: Low to mid altitude (200–500 m above sea level)

Soil: Limestone / chalk

Geographical setting: Hilly

Profile of Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore

Primary aromas: Ripe cherry, sour cherry, prune, blackberry and violet

Secondary aromas: Sweet spices (cinnamon, nutmeg) and toasted notes (cocoa, tobacco, leather)

Tertiary aromas: Hints of liquorice, balsamic and undergrowth

Tasting notes: Bronzato’s Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore 2019 is a medium-bodied red, harmonious and enveloping. On the palate it shows ripe fruit, soft spice and a velvety structure, with sweet tannins and well-integrated acidity. The finish is warm and persistent, with a pleasant echo of its passage over the Amarone skins.