Valpolicella

Made from Corvina (45-95%), Rondinella (5-30%), with optional Molinara and others. Classico covers the original hillside zone. Standard Valpolicella is a light, fruity red; Ripasso adds body and richness through refermentation on Amarone pomace.

Valpolicella's history begins in the Valpolicella zone near Verona, where winemaking has been practiced for centuries. The region's unique terroir—calcareous and volcanic soils, continental climate, and hilly terrain—creates wines with distinctive character and excellent value. The appellation received formal recognition in 1968 as DOC, codifying the production zone in the Valpolicella hills and quality standards. Valpolicella's distinctive character comes from the region's unique terroir and Corvina grape, which creates wines with approachable, food-friendly character. The wine's international reputation grew in the 1980s-1990s, when it became recognized as an excellent value alternative to more expensive Italian reds, celebrated for its quality and approachability. Today, Valpolicella represents a classic expression of Veneto red wine, with the wine's approachable character making it perfect for everyday enjoyment.

Valpolicella production follows DOC regulations. The wine must contain minimum 45% Corvina and/or Corvinone, with up to 30% Rondinella and other authorized red varieties. Harvest typically occurs in late September to early October, when grapes have achieved optimal ripeness. The grapes are harvested by hand, then destemmed and crushed before transfer to fermentation vessels. Fermentation occurs at controlled temperatures (25-28°C) with maceration on skins for 10-15 days, depending on the desired style. The wine must age minimum 1 year before release, with Superiore requiring 1 year minimum aging. Traditional producers favor large oak botti, while modernists may use stainless steel or French barriques. The wine must achieve minimum 11% alcohol (12% for Superiore) and pass quality controls. The wine's approachable character comes from the region's unique terroir and Corvina grape, which creates wines with medium body and food-friendly character.

Valpolicella represents Veneto's winemaking tradition, a wine that demonstrates the region's capacity for producing approachable, high-quality reds. In Veneto homes and restaurants, Valpolicella flows at everyday meals, its approachable character making it perfect for casual enjoyment. For Venetians, Valpolicella represents the region's unique terroir, a wine that honors Corvina tradition while expressing the Valpolicella zone's distinctive character.