Lenotti Le Crosare Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore 2020

Produced in the Valpolicella Classico area, north of Verona in Veneto, Italy, this wine hails from a region renowned for its ancient winemaking traditions. The vineyards, located in the hills of Negrar, Valgatara, and Fumane, feature calcareous and argillaceous soils of glacial and alluvial origin.

This Ripasso Classico Superiore is crafted from a blend of 70% Corvina, 25% Rondinella, and 5% Molinara. The "Ripasso" technique enhances the wine's richness by fermenting the Valpolicella wine on the skins of Amarone grapes, giving it greater depth, body, and complexity. It is a dry and full-bodied red wine, marked by its velvety texture and robust character.

The wine undergoes soft pressing of the grapes, with the first fermentation lasting 8–10 days at controlled temperatures. After three months in stainless steel tanks, the Ripasso process takes place in February or March, re-fermenting the wine on Amarone grape skins. The wine is then aged for a year in oak barrels to further develop its flavour and texture.

The intense ruby-red colour of this wine reflects its bold profile. Aromas of dark berries, plum, and cherry are complemented by notes of chocolate, vanilla, spices, and toasted oak. On the palate, it is smooth and elegant, with a full body, fine tannins, and a long, lingering finish.

It pairs excellently with roasted meats, game, and mature cheeses. It also complements hearty pasta dishes and richly flavoured Mediterranean cuisine.