Ripasso, as a category, is tough to pigeonhole. Stylistically they’re all over the map. You don’t typically have a good idea what you’re getting if you’re not familiar with the exact wine. This one is a bruiser. Hugely structured in terms of alcohol and tannin and acid. But not as rich in fruit as some. I love the earthy, winey nose. Some old leather too. But the palate impression is a little severe without rich, rustic food for it to cut through. And the finish exhibits a prominent bitter note. Use with rich, assertive, tomatoey meat sauces.
Ripasso, as a category, is tough to pigeonhole. Stylistically they’re all over the map. You don’t typically have a good idea what you’re getting if you’re not familiar with the exact wine. This one is a bruiser. Hugely structured in terms of alcohol and tannin and acid. But not as rich in fruit as some. I love the earthy, winey nose. Some old leather too. But the palate impression is a little severe without rich, rustic food for it to cut through. And the finish exhibits a prominent bitter note. Use with rich, assertive, tomatoey meat sauces.
May 28th, 2025
Valpolicella, Verona, Veneto, Italy
