What kind of wine is Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore DOC 2022 - Tommasi

The Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore DOC 2022 - Tommasi is an elegant and well-balanced red wine, produced in the heart of Valpolicella Classica, in Veneto. It originates from a blend of the region's traditional grape varieties – Corvina, Rondinella, and Corvinone – which contribute to creating a complex, aromatic, and well-structured wine. The term "Ripasso" indicates a particular winemaking technique that gives the wine more body, depth, and softness, making it one of the most appreciated expressions of Venetian tradition.

Vintage details

The 2022 vintage was characterized by a balanced climate, with sunny days and cool nights that allowed for uniform grape ripening. The ideal conditions favored aromatic concentration and excellent tannin quality, resulting in a harmonious and pleasantly structured wine, with a perfect balance between freshness and softness.

Winemaking and aging

The Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore DOC 2022 - Tommasi is made using the traditional "ripasso" technique, which involves the refermentation of Valpolicella wine on Amarone pomace. This process gives the wine greater aromatic intensity and a fuller body. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures, followed by aging for approximately 15 months in 65-hectoliter Slavonian oak barrels. The result is a wine that combines the finesse of Valpolicella with the richness of Amarone.

Tasting Notes

The Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore DOC 2022 - Tommasi stands out for its elegance and sensory depth. Below are its main organoleptic characteristics.

Color

Visually, it presents an intense ruby red color with garnet reflections, indicating good concentration and ripeness.

Nose

On the nose, it releases a broad bouquet, where notes of ripe cherry, plum, and sweet spices stand out, accompanied by hints of cocoa and vanilla derived from barrel aging. The overall impression is harmonious and enveloping.

Palate

On the palate, it is soft, full-bodied, and velvety, with round tannins and a pleasant persistence. The "ripasso" technique imparts structure and complexity, without making it heavy to drink: a perfect balance between elegance and strength. The finish is long, warm, and spicy.

Food pairings for Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore DOC 2022 - Tommasi

Thanks to its balanced structure, this wine is extremely versatile in food pairings. It pairs perfectly with savory and richly flavored dishes, such as:

• Pasta dishes with meat ragù or mushrooms;
• Grilled or braised red meats;
• Stews and roasts;
• Aged and moderately spicy cheeses.

It is also a wine suitable for social occasions, to be savored slowly to appreciate its evolution in the glass.

Storage and aging: how to store Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore DOC 2022 - Tommasi

To maintain the intact qualities of Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore DOC 2022 - Tommasi, it is advisable to store it in a cool, dark place free from temperature fluctuations, ideally around 14-16°C. The bottle should be placed horizontally to keep the cork moist.

Thanks to its structure and good alcohol content, this wine has excellent aging potential of up to 6-8 years. Over time, it will develop more complex tertiary notes, which will enhance its depth and softness.