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Welcome to our new series ‘Tips from the Tasting Room!’. It’s your go-to source for expert tips and tasting notes. Our first wine is an Italian red, Poggio Al Lago Valpolicella Ripasso, chosen by our Theale store manager, Mark.
What is Valpolicella?
Valpolicella is one of Italy’s best-known reds, loved for its vibrant red fruit. It’s often thought of as an any-occasion sort of red, but when you delve into the world of Valpolicella Ripasso, you discover a wine with added layers of intense chocolate and cherry character, thanks to its unique winemaking method.
What is the Ripasso method?
The Ripasso method is a traditional technique used to enhance the flavours and complexity of Valpolicella wines. It involves fermenting the wine with a portion of partially dried grapes. This process adds depth and richness, creating a wine that sits halfway between the powerful style of Amarone and the classic charm of Valpolicella. The result is a luscious, warming red with rich cherry flavours, deep mocha notes, and Valpolicella’s signature zip of freshness.
The Winemaker and the Winery
Poggio Al Lago comes from Cantina Negrar, not far from Verona. The winery is credited with inventing the Ripasso method and creating the first Amarone wine. The cellar’s talented winemaker Daniele Accordini works closely with small, local growers to encourage high standards in the vineyard, as well as respect for the natural environment and biodiversity. His dedication to excellence and innovation in winemaking has earned Cantina Negrar numerous accolades, including the title of Venetian Winery of the Year.
Tasting Notes
Poggio al Lago Valpolicella Ripasso is a sensory delight with vibrant red fruit flavours and layers of complexity. On the palate, you’ll experience rich cherry flavours intertwined with deep mocha notes.
Serving Recommendations
To enjoy this rich red at its best, open the bottle early and decant the wine. Allowing it to breathe will help unlock its full range of flavours and aromas, providing a more enjoyable tasting experience. Serve it at a slightly cool room temperature to bring out the best in its rich cherry and mocha notes.
The wine’s freshness and balanced acidity make it a perfect companion for a variety of dishes. Whether you’re enjoying a hearty pasta, game, or mature cheeses, this wine will enhance your dining experience with its rich and inviting character.
The wine in a nutshell
Poggio al Lago Valpolicella Ripasso, crafted by Daniele Accordini at Cantina Negrar, is a standout wine that beautifully bridges the gap between the powerful style of Amarone and the classic charm of Valpolicella. Its rich cherry flavours, deep mocha notes, and fresh acidity make it a versatile and delightful wine to enjoy with a variety of dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or new to the world of Italian reds, this Valpolicella Ripasso is sure to impress with its complexity and charm. So, next time you’re looking for a wine that offers both depth and vibrancy, reach for a bottle of Valpolicella Ripasso and experience the magic of this exceptional Italian red.
Ready to try it for yourself? Shop for Poggio al Lago Valpolicella Ripasso
About the author
Jennie Jennings
When Jennie left the world of newspapers she was more at ease reporting on crime and planning policy drama than wine. But after six years of sampling the Laithwaites range and qualifying to WSET Level 3 Wine, you’re now more likely to find Bordeaux stains than ink on her notepads. Often found terrorising her colleagues with talk of Instagram Reels in her role as Social Media Manager, Jennie has a particular fondness for creamy, full-bodied white wines and Champagne.
