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Red wine | Veneto, Valpolicella, Italy
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Allow me to introduce you to a gem from the heart of Veneto, Italy: the Antica Vigna Valpolicella Ripasso DOC Superiore. This isn't just another bottle of red; it's a journey through centuries of winemaking tradition, bottled and ready to be savored.
Let's start with the estate. Antica Vigna, a storied winery nestled in the Valpolicella Classica region, is a family-run business deeply rooted in the terroir. With generations of experience, they understand the nuances of the land, coaxing the best out of indigenous grapes like Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara. These grapes are the soul of Valpolicella, and in the hands of Antica Vigna, they sing.
What makes the Ripasso so special? It's all in the 'ripasso' technique, which translates to 'repassed.' After the fermentation of Amarone—Valpolicella's richer, dried-fruit sibling—the regular Valpolicella wine is refermented on the Amarone grape skins. This infuses the wine with added depth, complexity, and a velvety texture. It's like giving Valpolicella a second life, a boost of flavor that transforms it from a simple, fruity red into something truly extraordinary.
Speaking of flavor, prepare for a symphony of sensations. On the nose, you'll be greeted with ripe cherries and plums, complemented by hints of spice and a touch of balsamic. On the palate, the wine is dry and full-bodied, with a smooth, lingering finish. The tannins are well-integrated, providing structure without being aggressive. With its 13.5% alcohol content, this wine offers an intensity with every sip.
Food pairing is where this Ripasso truly shines. Its versatility makes it a fantastic partner for a wide array of dishes. Think hearty pasta dishes like pappardelle with wild boar ragù, grilled meats like lamb chops or steak, or aged cheeses like Pecorino or Parmigiano-Reggiano. It’s equally delightful on its own, sipped slowly as you unwind after a long day. I recommend serving it at 16°C and giving the wine around 15 minutes of rest. The ideal bottle type for this Ripasso is with cork.