Valpolicella Classico - Ripasso - Paolo Cottini

Paolo Cottini's Valpolicella Classico Ripasso DOC is produced using the traditional ripasso method in the Classico area of Valpolicella - the wine is refermented on the still-fresh pomace of Cottini's Amarone Classico, gaining greater body, structure, and complexity. The result is a wine halfway between the freshness of Valpolicella Classico and the power of Amarone.

The blend is precise and traditional: Corvina 60% as the aromatic backbone, Corvinone 30% for structure and body, and Rondinella 10% for freshness and floral notes. Refermentation on the pomace of Cottini's Amarone Classico gives the wine additional structure, tannins, residual sugars, and an aromatic concentration that brings it closer to a great appassimento wine without reaching the same level.

The aging is this Ripasso's most distinctive signature - a carefully designed two-stage sequence: 18 months in barriques to build initial structure and integrate the oak's spicy and vanilla notes, followed by 12 months in 30-hectoliter large oak casks, which round out and soften the influence of the smaller oak in a more terroir-driven and less pronounced harmony - and finally 6 months in bottle before release. In total, almost three years from the 2022 harvest to the customer.

On the nose, it expresses spirit-soaked cherry, dried plum, sweet spices, and a hint of chocolate. On the palate, it is soft and warm, with round, already well-integrated tannins, appealing acidity that balances the body, and a persistent finish with notes of red fruit and spices. Excellent value for money, suitable both for everyday meals and special occasions. One of the most appreciated labels in Emporio Divino's selection from Verona.