Recioto della Valpolicella Classico DOC 2013 50cl

Vineyards

Recioto della Valpolicella Classico is crafted from the outer portions of grape clusters, known as the "recie," which receive the most sunlight and therefore attain optimal ripeness. The blend consists of 65% Corvina, 20% Rondinella, and 5% Molinara, along with other indigenous old vines. The grapes are sourced from Corteforte’s vineyards in the Fumane valley, where limestone-rich soils and a temperate climate provide excellent growing conditions, contributing to the wine’s depth and complexity.

Winemaking

The grapes are carefully selected and undergo the appassimento process, where they are dried for several months to enhance their concentration of sugars and flavours. The first half of the "recie" is pressed in January, and fermentation begins by gently warming the juice to a constant 10°C. In early March, the remaining grapes, rich in natural sugars, are pressed and their juice is incorporated into the fermenting batch. This traditional approach enhances the wine’s aromatic complexity and layered structure. Fermentation is halted at 12-13% alcohol, ensuring a residual sugar level of no less than 10%. The wine is then matured in a combination of old and new wooden casks, followed by several months of bottle ageing before release.

Appearance

Dark ruby red, showcasing the wine’s richness and depth.

Nose

The bouquet is expressive and multi-layered, offering ripe berries, cherry jam, and plums, alongside hints of liquorice, cinnamon, vanilla, and dark chocolate. In its youth, floral notes such as violets and wildflowers also emerge, adding further elegance.

Palate

Silky and well-rounded, this Recioto delivers a delicate balance of sweetness and acidity, reflecting its rich fruit character. The wine is smooth and harmonious, with flavours that mirror its aromatic complexity, leading to a long, lingering finish.

Food pairing

This wine pairs beautifully with baked desserts, particularly those with minimal cream, such as traditional Panettone and Pandoro from Verona, as well as biscotti, fruit pies, and shortbreads. It also complements chocolate-based desserts and is an excellent choice as an after-dinner indulgence.

Background story

Corteforte, established in 1989 by Carlo Maria Cerutti, is located in the historically significant Fumane valley, north of Verona. The estate originated in the early 1400s as a fortified structure with four towers, evolving over time into a noble residence that now features a boutique hotel, restaurant, and winery, all surrounded by 3 hectares of premium vineyard plots.

The winery follows organic and sustainable practices and has an extensive underground cellar for long-term bottle ageing, despite its modest annual production of around 20,000 bottles. Corteforte employs a variety of barrel sizes and winemaking techniques, with a strong focus on the appassimento method.

Regarded as a hidden gem in the Amarone region, Corteforte is known for its commitment to crafting wines of authenticity, finesse, and character. From its Valpolicella Ripasso to its single-vineyard Amarones, the estate continues to uphold a high standard of excellence in Valpolicella winemaking.