Recchia, Valpolicella Ripasso 3 Litres 2020

Recchia is a well-established family-run winery in the heart of Valpolicella, known for its dedication to tradition and quality winemaking. With deep roots in the region, the Recchia family has been crafting wines for generations, focusing on expressing the unique characteristics of the local terroir. Their Valpolicella Ripasso is made using the historic ripasso technique, where the wine undergoes a second fermentation on the dried grape skins used for Amarone, enriching its body, texture, and complexity. The 2020 vintage enjoyed favourable conditions, with warm days and cool nights preserving freshness while allowing the grapes to develop deep, concentrated flavours.

The vineyards are planted on the rolling hills of Veneto, where limestone and clay soils provide both structure and minerality. Aged in oak barrels, this Ripasso balances richness with elegance, delivering a smooth yet structured wine with great depth and ageing potential.

Appearance: Deep ruby red with garnet reflections, showing its ageing potential. The wine is rich and concentrated, with slow-moving legs that cling to the glass, indicating its full-bodied nature. The colour fades slightly at the rim, hinting at the influence of the Ripasso method and time spent in oak.

Aroma: Intense and layered, with ripe black cherries, plums, and dried red berries. Hints of vanilla, cocoa, and sweet spices from oak ageing add warmth, while underlying notes of tobacco, leather, and balsamic contribute complexity. A touch of dried herbs and earthiness completes the bouquet.

Taste: Medium to full-bodied, with a silky yet structured mouthfeel. Ripe black and red fruit lead the way, followed by notes of dark chocolate, liquorice, and espresso. The ripasso method adds depth, while fresh acidity keeps the wine vibrant. Well-integrated tannins provide grip without overwhelming the palate.

Finish: Long and warming, with lingering dark fruit, spice, and a subtle hint of roasted coffee. A slight savoury edge adds intrigue, making it an excellent food wine.

Food Pairing: Ideal with slow-braised beef or lamb, where the wine’s richness and structure enhance the dish’s deep flavours. It also pairs beautifully with aged Parmigiano Reggiano, complementing its nutty, umami character. For a plant-based option, try it with a wild mushroom and lentil ragu, where the earthy tones of the dish match the wine’s depth.