2017 Speri Valpolicella Classico La Roverina DOCG, Pedemonte Veneto

Speri Valpolicella Classico La Roverina DOC, Veneto, Italy, is a single vineyard Valpolicella that captures the quiet confidence of one of the region’s most respected families. The Speri family has farmed vineyards in Pedemonte since the late 1800s, with La Roverina sitting on a prized hillside of limestone and basalt soils that naturally limit vigour and concentrate flavour. This site benefits from elevation and cooling breezes, giving slow even ripening and preserving freshness. Made from the classic Valpolicella trio of Corvina, Corvinone and Rondinella, the wine is fermented gently to retain purity and clarity, reflecting Speri’s long held philosophy of letting vineyard character speak rather than relying on winemaking tricks.

The colour is a bright, vibrant ruby, immediately signalling freshness. Aromatically it leans into sour cherry, red currant and wild strawberry, layered with dried herbs, almond skin, subtle spice and a faint stony earthiness from the soils. On the palate it is medium bodied and finely structured, with crunchy red fruit at the core, supple tannins and a savoury thread that builds through the finish. There is a gentle saline lift and a lingering bitterness that adds complexity and makes it incredibly food friendly. It shines with grilled lamb, veal scaloppine, mushroom risotto, pasta with tomato and herbs, or a spread of salumi and aged cheeses. While delicious young for its energy and brightness, it will cellar gracefully for five to eight years, developing more savoury and earthy nuance without losing its natural poise.