What kind of wine is Recioto della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 'Le Traversagne' 2020 - Le Salette

Recioto della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 'Le Traversagne' 2020 - Le Salette is a sweet red passito wine born in the heart of Valpolicella Classica, in Veneto. It is primarily made from indigenous grapes such as Corvina, Rondinella, and Corvinone, hand-picked and then left to dry to concentrate their natural aromas and sugars. This wine represents the most traditional and precious soul of the area, an authentic expression of the ancient art of appassimento (drying).

Vintage details

The 2020 vintage stood out for an ideal balance between maturation and concentration. The grapes, coming from well-exposed hillside vineyards, benefited from a warm, dry summer and a mild autumn, factors that favored a healthy harvest characterized by particularly sugar-rich and aromatic bunches. The result is an elegant Recioto, with an intense and harmonious profile.

Vinification and aging

After harvesting, the grapes are left to dry naturally for about five months, a practice that allows water to evaporate, concentrating aromas and sugars. Fermentation takes place slowly, interrupted before all the sugars are converted into alcohol, to maintain the typical sweetness of Recioto. Aging continues for 24 months in concrete tanks, which ensure stability and respect for the purity of the fruit. The wine thus develops complexity and finesse, with an aging potential that can exceed 15 years.

Tasting Notes

Recioto della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 'Le Traversagne' 2020 - Le Salette is a meditation wine, refined and rich, perfect for those seeking an intense and enveloping sensory experience.

Color

It presents a deep, almost impenetrable ruby red color, with garnet reflections that anticipate its structure and evolution.

Nose

On the nose, it expresses complex and seductive aromas: sour cherries in spirit, ripe plums, dark chocolate, and light notes of sweet spices. The drying process imparts hints of dried fruit and honey, with balsamic nuances on the finish.

Palate

On the palate, it is velvety and full-bodied, with a perfect balance between sweetness and freshness. The tannins are soft, integrated, and never intrusive. The sip concludes with a long persistence, where memories of cherry and cocoa re-emerge. It is a wine of great balance and charm.

What dishes to pair with Recioto della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 'Le Traversagne' 2020 - Le Salette

This Recioto is an ideal companion for the end of a meal, but it also lends itself well to interesting gastronomic pairings. Some suggestions:

• Dark chocolate desserts or red fruit-based desserts;
• Blue cheeses like Gorgonzola or Stilton;
• Sour cherry tart or traditional Venetian dry desserts;
• As a meditation wine, to be enjoyed alone at the end of the evening.

Storage and aging: how to store Recioto della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 'Le Traversagne' 2020 - Le Salette wine

Recioto della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 'Le Traversagne' 2020 - Le Salette should be stored in a cool place, with a constant temperature between 12 and 16°C, away from light sources and vibrations. The bottle should be laid flat to keep the cork moist and ensure perfect sealing over time.

Thanks to its structure and natural residual sugar, this wine has excellent aging potential. It can evolve for over 15 years, developing more complex and harmonious nuances. It is recommended to uncork it one hour before serving, serving it at a temperature of about 14-16°C to best appreciate all its aromatic nuances.