The red wines made from dried grapes in the Veneto region of Italy can be sublime. Amarone is the king, a rich, full bodied wine with berries everywhere in the good versions. Some can get a bit overripe and raisiny, but still very good. I just prefer the brighter fruit driven versions. A good Amarone will set you back a few bucks however.
Another great alternative is a Valpolicella Ripasso. The ripasso method involeves a second fermentation with the must of the Amarone pressing, which imparts additional color and depth to the wine. Think of it as a baby Amarone. These can be excellent, and sometimes ridiculous values. Here’s one we picked off a restaurant list in Winston-Salem, NC a few weeks ago.
Wine: 2021 Carra Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore
Winery Location: Veneto, Italy
Tasted By: Neil & Cheri Date: May 2025
Tasting Notes: Color is a medium red. The nose is bright, with red berries, orange peel and some leather notes. It is medium bodied on the palate with medium+ tannins. The tannins push through more at the end. The wine has a delightful core of fruit and a long finish. Very well done.
Price Point – Low $20 range.
Would We Buy It? – Absolutely. This is a great value bottle in the $20-$25 range. It is bright and focused, and flat out delicious.
The red wines of Veneto are worth trying. This is a good one.
A votre santé!
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