Valpolicella and its wines

The Valpolicella is one of the most famous wine areas in Italy, located in province of Verona, in Veneto, between Lake Garda and the Lessini mountains. It is universally known for producing intense, fragrant, long-lived reds, among which the standout is the famous Amarone della Valpolicella, the Ripasso and the Valpolicella Classico.

The region is a mosaic of valleys, limestone hills, a mild and breezy climate. This combination favours the cultivation of native grapes such as Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella e Molinara, which give rise to wines ranging from elegant and easy-drinking to structured and contemplative.

What is the Valpolicella wine district?

The area is divided into three main sub-zones:

• Valpolicella Classica: the most historic, it includes municipalities such as Negrar, Fumane, Marano, Sant’Ambrogio and San Pietro in Cariano.

• Valpantena: an intermediate area north-east of Verona, with characteristics similar to the Classica.

• Eastern Valpolicella: more recent, it stretches towards the border with Vicenza.

The official appellations are:

• Valpolicella DOC

• Valpolicella Superiore DOC

• Valpolicella Ripasso DOC

• Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG

• Recioto della Valpolicella DOCG

Characteristics of the Wines of Valpolicella

Colour

• Intense ruby red when young, turning towards garnet with age (Amarone).

Aromas

• Fruity: Ripe cherry, plum, blackberry.

• Spicy: Black pepper, tobacco, chocolate and cinnamon.

• Developed: Notes of fruit in spirit, leather, liquorice in the Amarone wines.

Palate

• Valpolicella Classico: Fresh, fragrant, with light tannins.

• Ripasso: Fuller-bodied, complex, soft, thanks to refermentation on the Amarone pomace.

• Amarone: Powerful, warm, velvety, with a long finish.

• Recioto: Sweet, enveloping, perfect as a contemplative wine or with dessert.

Typical Grape Varieties of Valpolicella

• Corvina: The main variety, it gives structure and perfume.

• Corvinone: An alternative to Corvina, richer and more powerful.

• Rondinella: Adds colour and backbone.

• Molinara (less used today): It brings acidity.

• Others permitted: Oseleta, Negrara, Croatina in small percentages.

Why Choose a Wine from the Valpolicella?

A wine from the Valpolicella it suits a great many occasions.

• The Classico is perfect with cured meats, white meat and everyday dishes.

• The Ripasso it accompanies braised meat, ragù and roasts.

• TheAmarone is ideal with aged cheeses, game, important dishes or as a contemplative wine.

• The Recioto goes with chocolate desserts or can be a surprise with blue cheeses.