Zardini Valpolicella Ripasso

Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore DOC 2018 - Pietro Zardini

Grape Variety:

• Corvina 70%
• Rondinella 20%
• Molinara 10%

The Zardini Valpolicella Ripasso is one of the greatest choices to balance price with quality. It's a rather lighter and younger version of Amarone wines. For that, it can deliver a rich experience while still keeping good company with a wide range of foods.

This wine is dark and intense, with high alcoholic content and very tannic. Still, it is a good companion for a fine dinner, being fruited and present.

Characteristics

Terroir

• Location: Valpolicella DOC
• Exposure: South West 
• Soil type: Clear soils and on detritus, calcareous marl, and basalts.
• Plant density: 80 q.li per hectare 

Harvest Data

Yield: 6500 kg. of grapes

Harvest period: End September, beginning of October.

Grape harvest: By hand in small boxes

Vinification

The Valpolicella Ripasso uses traditional vinification on the skins with maceration. The process happens on tanks for 15-25 days. A subsequent "review" of 30 days is made in the Amarone pomace. One of its main distinctions is the use of re-fermentation using the unpressed skins and seeds of the grapes.

This process, referred to as the Ripasso method, is often compared with the Amarone production. As for the result, we have a dark and intense wine. Yet, it's adequate for earlier consumption.

Maturation

Oak barrels and barriques for 2 years and then in steel

Tasting Notes

Full, velvety, and lots of tannin!

Colour

Dark, intense ruby red.

Nose

Present, rich with hints of black cherries and cooked fruit. Some wine tasters report coffee, dark fruit, and subtle notes, remembering raisins.

ABV

14%.

Consumption

Wine to be drunk over 6-8 years at a temperature of 18 ° C. Recommended uncorking 2 to 4 hours before consumption.

Pairing

Recommended with grilled red meats, pasta with sauces, roasts, and fermented cheeses.