Valpolicella Classico Superiore Ripasso Acinatico
Rich, layered, and deeply rooted in tradition, Acinatico Valpolicella Classico Superiore Ripasso is a classic expression of the Valpolicella hills in Veneto. Crafted using the traditional Ripasso method—where fresh Valpolicella is refermented on the skins of Amarone grapes—it gains depth, texture, and a beautifully concentrated character while retaining freshness and lift.
Appellation: Valpolicella Ripasso DOC
Type: Red, dry
Blend: 60% Corvina Veronese, 15% Corvinone, 20% Rondinella, 5% Molinara
Color: Intense ruby red.
Bouquet: Aromas of ripe cherry, dried plum, black cherry, spice, and subtle cocoa.
Palate: Smooth and layered, with velvety tannins, lifted acidity, and a long, warming finish marked by savory depth and gentle dried fruit complexity.
Alcohol: 14%.
Serving Suggestions: 16–18°C / 60–64°F. Uncork at least 1 hour before drinking.
Food Pairing: Pairs beautifully with braised meats, roasted lamb, and rich pasta dishes like ragù, where its depth of ripe cherry, spice, and dried fruit from Valpolicella Ripasso DOC enhances savory intensity. It also works wonderfully with aged cheeses and mushroom-based dishes, where its velvety texture and lifted acidity keep the palate fresh and balanced.
Production Area: Valpolicella Classico Superiore, Pedemonte (Verona).
Vineyard: Located in the hilly region of Negrar, at an elevation of with a exposure.
Elevation: 182-228 meters (600 to 750 feet) a.s.l.
Exposure: Southeastern.
Soil: Alluvial.
Average Age of Vines: 35 years old.
Plant Density: 1300 plants per acre.
Training System: Double Pergola.
Yield: About 3.2 tons per acre
Harvest: Third week of September.
Vinification: Fermentation in stainless steel tanks with a 12 day maceration and 3 daily pump-overs. The wine is kept in stainless steel tanks till February, then it is re-strained with the marcs of Amarone for 15 days at 15°C. Transfer into barrels by the end of May.
Aging: In new French oak barrels for 12 months and 6 months in the bottle.
Bottle aging potential: Stored properly - at proper temperature, laid down horizontally and in the dark - this wine can keep its characteristics for 10- 15 years.
2012 Valp. Classico Superiore, "Acinatico" Ripasso – 84 Points – R. P. Wine Advocate (#209 Oct 2013)
“The 2012 Valpolicella Classico is a respectable value wine that puts up no resistance as it washes clear over the palate. This is the kind of easygoing Valpolicella I remember my parents drinking happily in the 1970s at the neighborhood Italian restaurant we once loved. Made in stainless steel, the wine presents simple cherry flavors and crisp acidity.” ~ M.L.
