Valpolicella Ripasso DOC – Az. Agricola Paolo Cottini: The Balance of the "Baby Amarone"
A Valpolicella Ripasso of extraordinary balance, born in the heart of the Valpolicella Classica region. This label from the Paolo Cottini winery represents the perfect union between small-scale family craftsmanship and the majesty of a centuries-old technique.
Often nicknamed "Baby Amarone", this wine is the ideal bridge between the freshness of a young red and the meditative complexity of the great Veronese Crus.
Paolo Cottini’s Valpolicella Ripasso stands out for several key features:
- The "Ripasso" Method: The wine is obtained through the traditional practice of re-fermenting Valpolicella wine on the dried grape skins used for Amarone. This process enriches the wine's structure, color, and aromas, giving it the velvety character it is famous for.
- Grapes: Produced with a classic blend of Corvina (60%), Corvinone (30%), and Rondinella (10%), varieties that provide body, color, and an unmistakable spicy note.
- Profile: A round and mature wine, capable of being both traditional and innovative. Its structure makes it perfect for both professional glass pouring and formal dinners.
- Artisanship: Paolo Cottini personally oversees every stage of production, ensuring an attention to detail that only a family-run winery can offer, reflecting a dedication to high-quality viticulture.
VINIFICATION
- Technique: Second fermentation (ripasso) of Valpolicella wine on dried grapes (Amarone pomace).
- Fermentation Vessel: Stainless steel tanks.
- Maturation: Aged in wood to enhance smoothness and aromatic complexity.
TECHNICAL DATA
- Appellation: Valpolicella Ripasso DOC
- Alcohol Content: 14% Vol.
- Grapes: 60% Corvina, 30% Corvinone, 10% Rondinella.
TASTING NOTES
- Service Temperature: 18°-20°C in large wine glasses.
- Color: Deep ruby red, tending towards garnet with age.
- Nose: Intense, complex, and mature bouquet; notes of marasca cherry, plum jam, and subtle hints of sweet spices emerge.
- Palate: Rich on the palate, with excellent structure, harmonious and elegant. The tannic texture is velvety, with a long persistence echoing ripe red fruits.
- Food Pairing: Excellent with red meat main courses, roasts, game, and braised meats. It pairs beautifully with aged cheeses.