Valpolicella Ripasso

Valpolicella Ripasso is often called Amarone 's little brother, and for good reason. This wine from the Veneto region combines the freshness of a standard Valpolicella with the depth and power created by a unique production method. The result is a wine with plenty of structure, ripe fruit, and a soft texture, making Ripasso one of the most popular red wines from Northern Italy.

What is Valpolicella Ripasso?

The name " ripasso " literally means "re-passed." This term refers to the technique in which young Valpolicella wine is brought into contact with the still-warm grape skins of the Amarone grapes for a second fermentation. The remains of the dried grapes still contain a lot of sugars and aromas, which are absorbed by the young wine. This gives Ripasso more color, alcohol, and a more complex character than a regular Valpolicella.

Origin and grape varieties

The wine comes from the hills north of Verona. The area boasts a diverse terroir with soils of limestone, clay, and volcanic rock. The wines are made from the region's classic indigenous grape varieties:

• Corvina – provides body and the recognizable notes of cherries.
• Corvinone – gives extra colour and depth to the wine.
• Rondinella – contributes to the aromatic spiciness.
• Molinara – sometimes added for the necessary freshness and acidity.

When a Ripasso comes from the original, central part of the region, the term "Classico" may appear on the label. These wines are often characterized by greater concentration and refinement.

Flavor profile and style

A Valpolicella Ripasso is recognizable by its full, generous character. While regular Valpolicella is primarily light and fruity, Ripasso offers a broader palette of flavors:

• Dark fruits such as blackberries and black cherries
• Subtle notes of raisins and dried plums
• Spicy accents of vanilla, black pepper and sometimes some tobacco due to wood aging
• A velvety finish with mild tannins

Despite the extra power, a good Ripasso always retains sufficient freshness, which keeps the wine well balanced.

Storage and serving

Valpolicella Ripasso is a wine that is very accessible immediately after purchase, but it can also be stored in the cellar for several years.

• Cellaring Potential: Most wines are at their best between 3 and 8 years after harvest.
• Serving temperature: Serve the wine between 16 and 18 degrees.
• Gastronomy: Its robust body and fruity character make this wine an excellent accompaniment to grilled red meat, game dishes, rich pasta with meat sauce, and mature cheeses.

Buy Valpolicella Ripasso at PerfecteWijn.nl

At Perfecte Wijn, we select Ripassos that offer the perfect balance between the power of technique and the elegance of the fruit. Our collection features wines from producers who work with respect for the traditions of the region. Whether you're looking for a powerful dinner companion or a wine to enjoy at a leisurely pace, a Valpolicella Ripasso is always a reliable choice for lovers of Northern Italian reds.