Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso Wines
Within the Veneto wine region lies the DOC of Valpolicella. While the majority of the wine that comes out of this region is made into a light and fruity style intended for early consumption, the ripasso method—a technique that re-ferments the wine using the unpressed skins and seeds from Amarone production—creates a deeper wine with noticeably more tannin, pigment and a mandatory minimal alcohol content of 13%. With its dark fruit, coffee and subtle raisinated qualities, these wines often resemble scaled-down versions of the more intense Amarones, but for a fraction of the cost. To help locate some of the top rated wines as well as the best buys from the area, simply reference our Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso Wine Guide.
Zenato 2009 Ripassa Red (Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso)
- Online Exclusive
- $29
The name “Ripassa” refers to the unique winemaking technique, ripasso, in which the wine undergoes a double fermentation for increased concentration and density. This is bold, powerful and tightly packed with cherry and exotic spice aromas.
— M.L.
(11/1/2012)
Tedeschi 2008 Capitel San Rocco Red (Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso)
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- $23
Tedeschi presents a beautifully balanced Ripasso with a successful contrast between elegance and power. The aromas here recall mature fruit, spice, leather and Spanish cedar and the wine offers a long, thick and soft finish.
— M.L.
(2/1/2011)
Bonazzi Dario e Fabio 2005 Ca' Camparsi Red (Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso)
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This Ripasso speaks of Valpolicella tradition with aromas of exotic spice, warm fruit, blackberry preserves, ash and smoked bacon. This is a fleshy dense wine with a bright, zesty finish and medium-long persistency. —M.L.
— M.L.
(10/1/2009)
Brunelli 2006 Pa' Riondo Red (Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso)
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Pa’ Riondo is an attractive and well-integrated ripasso with all the aromas you usually associate with this unique category of wine: spice, currant berry, dried fruit, leather, tobacco and resin. The mouthfeel is lively and fresh thanks to the bright acidity. Imported by Monarchia Matt International.
— M.L.
(10/1/2009)
CampoReale 2006 Red (Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso)
- Online Exclusive
Clean and correct, CampoReale Ripasso spreads smoothly over the palate with intense aromas of spice, mature cherry, coffee and tobacco. You’ll love the soft plush feel here and the quality of the cherry fruit flavors. —M.L.
— M.L.
(10/1/2009)
Cantina Sociale della Valpantena 2005 Torre del Falasco Red (Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso)
- Online Exclusive
- $35
Here’s a lusciously ripe and fruit forward ripasso with thick density and dense chocolate nuances that give the wine outstanding intensity. It imparts power and delicate freshness at the same time thanks to its aromas of dried currants and spice. Imported by Omniwines Distribution.
— M.L.
(10/1/2009)
Cantina Sociale della Valpantena 2007 Torre del Falasco Red (Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso)
- $30
This estate makes both a Superiore and a non-Superiore expression of ripasso. The Superiore spends more time in oak and offers great intensity with layers of ripe fruit, spice, toast and soft chocolate fudge. Imported by Omniwines Distribution.
— M.L.
(10/1/2009)
Cecilia Beretta 2007 Red (Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso)
- $22
Cecilia Beretta is a high-end producer and her food-friendly ripasso boasts delicate aromas of graphite and talc powder and ripe tones of mature fruit, suede and coffee. The mouthfeel is smooth and soft and the wine ends with a blast of red cherry.
— M.L.
(10/1/2009)
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The bold, fruity scent and lingering finish evoke berries and bananas…
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