Red wine | Veneto, Italy
The Bertani 'Le Miniere di Novare' is a testament to the storied history and refined philosophy of the Bertani winery, founded in 1857. This specific bottling captures the authentic essence of the Valpolicella Classica region, specifically from the single-vineyard 'Le Miniere' located within the prestigious Tenuta Novare estate in Arbizzano di Negrar.
This wine is a brilliant expression of terroir, crafted with a dedication to traditional techniques that favor elegance over manipulation. The blend of 70% Corvina Veronese, 20% Corvinone, and 10% Rondinella is grown on unique Eocene limestone and reddish clay soils, which impart a distinct structural intensity. True to the Bertani philosophy of minimal intervention, the wine undergoes no oak aging, instead spending 6-9 months in concrete tanks followed by at least six months of refinement in the bottle. This process ensures the pure, vibrant fruit character of the grapes remains center stage.
In the glass, it radiates a bright, brilliant ruby red color. The nose is immediately seductive, offering a bouquet dominated by fresh red fruits—notably cherry and wild berries—lifted by the classic, elegant overtones of white pepper that define high-quality Corvina. On the palate, it is remarkably sapid, graceful, and balanced. It eschews the heavy, sweet, or artificial profiles found in some contemporary, mass-produced styles, offering instead a 'crunchy' texture and a persistent, savory finish that makes it incredibly food-friendly.
This wine is an excellent companion to a wide array of dishes. It pairs beautifully with classic regional Italian fare, such as traditional charcuterie boards, medium-aged cheeses, risotto, or moderately weighted meat dishes like poultry and roast meats. It is a sophisticated, clean, and highly drinkable red that reflects the dedication to authenticity for which Bertani is celebrated, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate a wine with character, history, and a clear sense of place.