From Roccolo Grassi in Italy’s Valpolicella zone of Veneto, the Valpolicella Superiore 2017 is a refined Corvina-dominated blend (typically including Corvinone, Rondinella, and Croatina) sourced from dedicated vineyard sections on volcanic and calcareous soils that impart concentration and minerality. Hand-harvested grapes from the warm 2017 vintage undergo partial appassimento (around 30% dried for 20 days) for added depth without excess sweetness, fermentation in stainless steel, and 20 months' aging in large oak casks and barriques (20% new) to balance power and freshness. This ambitious expression from Marco Sartori yields a deep ruby wine with remarkable complexity and aging potential.
Tasting Notes A sleeping giant that slowly awakens with dark herbal-tinged plums, cracked ashen stone, incense, and dried flowers, turning silky-verging-on-velvety with stimulating acidity enlivening ripe mineral-inflected red and black fruits, violet florals, and hints of salted licorice on a youthfully structured finish. Spicy tobacco, white pepper, graphite, coffee, cherry, and small red berries add further layers.
Awards and Accolades The 2017 Valpolicella Superiore earned 94 points from Vinous (Eric Guido) for its sleeping giant character and extra fruit dimension from the warm vintage.
Serving and Cellaring Serve at 16-18°C with 45-60 minutes of decanting to unfold aromas. Ideal with grilled meats, mushroom risotto, or aged cheeses. Enjoy now through 2035, gaining more savory depth over time.
Technical Details
Alcohol: 14.5% ABV
Residual Sugar: <2 g/L
Closure: Cork
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