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Red wine | Veneto, Italy
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Step into the heart of the Veneto with the Le Ragose Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore, a wine that embodies the soul and dedication of one of Negrar's most historic estates. Founded in 1969 by the legendary enologist Arnaldo Galli and his wife Marta—often called 'La Signora del Vino' for her pioneering work in the region—Le Ragose sits at one of the highest elevations in the Valpolicella zone. This prime location, between 250 and 400 meters above sea level, allows for a perfect microclimate that produces grapes with remarkable aromatic complexity and balance.
The Ripasso technique is a true labor of love here. After a traditional fermentation of the Valpolicella in the autumn, the wine undergoes a second 'ripasso' or 're-passing' in January. It is refermented on the fresh lees and skins of the estate's powerful Amarone, absorbing its structure, alcohol, and signature notes of dried fruits and sweet spices. The result is a wine that feels both grand and approachable: it offers the depth and intensity one expects from an Amarone-adjacent style, yet it maintains the vibrant, fresh acidity and medium-bodied elegance of a classic Valpolicella.
On the nose, you will be greeted by an inviting bouquet of ripe black cherries, plums, and wild berries, beautifully woven with complex layers of dried figs, cocoa powder, coffee, and subtle savory herbs. On the palate, it is smooth and velvety, with well-integrated tannins that lead into a remarkably long, dry, and satisfying finish.
This wine is a versatile companion for your table. Its savory profile and structured acidity make it the perfect partner for hearty, traditional Italian cuisine. Pair it with slow-cooked ragù, grilled red meats, game dishes, or a selection of aged cheeses. Whether you are hosting a formal dinner or seeking a sophisticated bottle to elevate an evening at home, the Le Ragose Ripasso represents the pinnacle of terroir-driven winemaking in Valpolicella. It is a bottle that reflects not just the land, but a family legacy of passion, minimal intervention, and unwavering quality.
Solidly made, though a bit heavy for my usual crisp palate. It avoids the cloying sweetness many Ripassos fall into, leaning more toward a classic Allegrini style. Respectable, but not life-changing.