Corvina Veronese, Cornivone and Rondinella are the base for the production of great Verona Wines and the 2014 Castelforte Valpolicella Ripasso is no exception.
After a careful selection of Valpolicella grapes with high sugar content, vinification takes place with the ‘Ganimede’ system where the grape skins and wine are continuously mixed in order to extract colour and tannins. During the winter, Valpolicella wine is passed over the skins remaining from the production of Amarone using the traditional ‘Ripasso’ technique, which increases the alcohol, body and perfumes of the wine. The resulting wine is aged partly in stainless steel and partly in oak wood casks for 12 months.
It is intense ruby red tending to garnet. Crushed flowers, sweet tobacco, mint and dried cherries grace the palate. Silky tannins provide the backdrop for this gentle, perfumed Valpolicella full of character and personality. Floral and savoury notes reappear on the finish, adding lift and perfume. A lovely showing from Castelforte. At 13.5% it is perfect with gam, red meat and mature cheese.