What kind of wine is Valpolicella Classico Superiore DOC “Rafaèl” 2022 - Tommasi?

The Valpolicella Classico Superiore DOC “Rafaèl” 2022 - Tommasi is one of the red wines emblematic of Veronese tradition, produced by one of Valpolicella's historic wineries. It is made from a blend of native grapes – Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara – cultivated in the heart of the classic area, where calcareous soils and a temperate microclimate impart elegance and depth to the wine. This is a red wine with a medium-full body, harmonious and balanced, characterized by a perfect balance between freshness and soft tannins.

Vintage details

The 2022 vintage was marked by a dry but balanced climate, with good temperature variations between day and night, conditions that favored the homogeneous ripening of the grapes. The harvest, carried out manually between late September and early October, allowed only the best bunches to be selected, ensuring a wine of great aromatic precision and pleasant concentration.

Vinification and aging

Fermentation takes place in stainless steel at a controlled temperature for about 12 days, with carefully managed maceration (contact of the must with the skins) to extract color and aromas without excessive tannins. Aging continues in Slavonian oak barrels for about 15 months, a period that softens the wine and enriches its aromatic complexity. The result is a Valpolicella Classico Superiore with an intense personality and extraordinary drinkability.

Tasting notes

The Valpolicella Classico Superiore DOC “Rafaèl” 2022 - Tommasi stands out for its balanced, fresh, and refined identity, captivating from the very first sip.

Color

Visually, it presents a brilliant ruby red with delicate garnet reflections, indicating good evolution but also youthful energy.

Nose

The aromatic profile is broad and inviting: notes of ripe cherry, wild berries, and light spicy hints of black pepper and vanilla emerge. In the background, a fine balsamic and floral nuance is perceptible, lending depth and complexity.

Palate

On the palate, it offers a medium-full structure well-balanced by a lively freshness. The tannins are soft and polished, providing pleasantness and harmony. The finish is long, with a slightly spicy and fruity aftertaste that invites a second glass.

What dishes to pair with Valpolicella Classico Superiore DOC “Rafaèl” 2022 - Tommasi

This wine lends itself to a wide range of gastronomic pairings, thanks to its versatility and natural elegance. It is ideal with typical Italian dishes and especially with white meats and light red meats. Also excellent with medium-aged cheeses.

• Fresh pasta with meat ragù
• Risottos with mushrooms or sausage
• Grilled or oven-baked meats
• Semi-aged cheeses like Monte Veronese or Asiago

Storage and aging: how to store Valpolicella Classico Superiore DOC “Rafaèl” 2022 - Tommasi

To best preserve the qualities of this wine, it is important to store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and at a constant temperature of around 14-16°C. The bottle should be kept horizontally so that the cork remains moist and does not lose its seal.

The Valpolicella Classico Superiore DOC “Rafaèl” 2022 - Tommasi shows an extraordinary ability to evolve over time: it can be enjoyed immediately to appreciate its freshness, or left in the cellar for 4-6 years, during which it will develop more evolved notes of spice and dried fruit, further enriching its complexity and roundness.