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.

Characteristics of the Corvina Grape Variety

Agronomic Aspects

  • Origin: Indigenous to the Veneto, with historical roots in Valpolicella.
  • Climate: It prefers temperate climates with good ventilation and well-drained soils.
  • Soil: It is at its best on hillside limestone, marl and volcanic soils.

Grape Characteristics

  • Berry: Small, with a thick skin and a deep blue-black colour.
  • Aromatic profile: Fruity and spicy, with excellent acidity and silky tannins.

Wines Made from Corvina

Colour

  • Reds: Bright ruby red with garnet nuances in the more evolved wines.

Aromas

  • Fruity: Notes of cherry, sour cherry, currant and plum.
  • Floral: Hints of violet and rose.
  • Spicy: Hints of black pepper, cinnamon and cocoa.
  • Developing: In the longer-aged wines, shades of tobacco, leather and liquorice come through.

Palate

  • Fresh and dynamic: With marked acidity and elegant tannins.
  • Structured and lingering: In the wines from dried grapes, with a long, complex finish.

Production Areas

Italy

  • Valpolicella: The heartland of Corvina, with wines ranging from Valpolicella DOC to Amarone DOCG.
  • Bardolino: Fresh, fruity wines produced on the shores of Lake Garda.

Food Pairings

Young Red Wines

  • First Courses: Pasta with ragù, herb risottos.
  • White Meat: Grilled chicken, roast turkey.

Wines from Dried Grapes (Amarone and Recioto)

  • Red Meat: Braises, roasts, game.
  • Aged Cheeses: Parmigiano Reggiano, pecorino di fossa.
  • Desserts (for the Recioto): Fruit tarts, chocolate-based desserts.

Why Choose Corvina?

Corvina is a versatile grape variety that gives fresh, easy-drinking wines, but also complex, long-lived reds thanks to the appassimento technique. Perfect for anyone looking for wines with great character and personality.

Corvina: My personal top three

  • 1
    Ripasso Jago 2022 - Villa Spinosa

    Ripasso Jago 2022 - Villa Spinosa

    • Type: Red Wine
    • Region: Italy, Valpolicella, Veneto
    Discover this wine
  • 2
    Valpolicella Ripasso 2024 - Speri

    Valpolicella Ripasso 2024 - Speri

    • Type: Red Wine
    • Region: Italy, Valpolicella, Veneto
    Discover this wine
  • 3
    Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore 2019 - Bronzato

    Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore 2019 - Bronzato

    • Type: Red Wine
    • Region: Italy, Valpolicella, Veneto
    Discover this wine

All those I have tried