Corte Majoli, Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso, Veneto, Italy, 2018 65% Corvina, 30% Rondinella, 5% Molinara BLACK CHERRY & PRUNE, CLOVE, LEATHER & TOASTY OAK Verona’s Valpolicella region is home to several distinct styles including basic Valpolicella, the dried grape version called “Amarone”, and the “Ripasso” style featured here (which falls somewhere between) -– all starring the Corvina grape. The technique involved in Ripasso is to first make a regular wine from standard grapes, but in February, dried grapes like the ones used to make Amarone are added to this wine prior to a second fermentation which adds color, depth, and additional flavor to the final wine, resulting something like a super-Valpolicella or fledgling Amarone. Flavors of raisins, cherry, pink peppercorn, and sweet spices prevail. Firm, generous, and full-flavored! Serving Suggestion: Hearty fare! Strong cheeses like Parmesan or Taleggio. Meaty stews with carrots, prunes, cloves, and potatoes
