Vineyard and winemaking
This Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso combines 65% Corvina, 20% Rondinella and a smaller share of Molinara and other local grapes. Corteforte’s vines occupy south-west-facing clay-limestone slopes around Fumane at approximately 150–300 metres, where controlled yields support concentration without sacrificing aromatic lift.
After its first fermentation, the young Valpolicella was passed over Amarone skins and pomace to ferment again, gaining colour, body and layers of dried fruit and spice. The wine then matured for six to eight months in a mixture of old and new French oak, allowing its added structure to settle without masking the freshness of the 2021 fruit.
Tasting notes
Appearance
Clear ruby red with vivid garnet highlights.
Nose
Fresh Morello cherry, raspberry and plum are followed by violet, cracked pepper and dried oregano. A restrained note of cedar and cocoa hints at both the ripasso passage and oak maturation.
Palate
Juicy and structured, with bright red fruit at the centre and darker, gently dried-fruit tones beneath. Fine tannins and energetic acidity maintain lift, carrying cherry, herbs and subtle spice through a clean, savoury finish.
Food pairing
Pair with roast chicken and pancetta, pork ragù with polenta, grilled lamb koftas, or a baked aubergine parmigiana. Its combination of freshness and depth also works neatly with mature Red Leicester.
Background story
Corteforte is a tiny Fumane estate housed within a fortified property dating back to the early 15th century. Carlo Maria Cerutti began selling its wines in 1989, focusing on the local dried-grape traditions and allowing even the more approachable bottlings meaningful time in cask and cellar.
Ripasso occupies the bridge between everyday Valpolicella and Amarone. Corteforte’s 2022 Superiore keeps that distinction clear: the second fermentation adds breadth and spice, but the wine remains dry, vivid and table-friendly rather than dominated by weight.
