Zenato Valpolicella Classico Superiore Ripassa 2007

"Deep ruby-red in color with a complex nose of dried fruit and licorice, Ripassa represents one of the most important milestones in Zenato’s history. The wine offers rich aromas of blackberry jam, currant, chocolate, coffee and tar that linger on the palate and are sustained by a round and structured body. Recommended with grilled meat dishes, Ripassa is excellent with rabbit casserole.

A blend of 80% Corvina, 10% Rondinella, and 10% Sangiovese. As soon as the dried grapes for the Amarone are fermented, selected batches of Valpolicella wine are "re-passed" over the Amarone’s lees, thus starting a second fermentation that slightly increases the alcohol content and gives the wine deeper color, increased extract, and more complex aromas. Ripassa is refined in tank for six months and then aged in small oak barrels for 18-24 months."
- Winemaker Notes

93 Robert Parker