2006 Valpolicella Superiore DOC Ripasso, Corte Sant'Alda, Veneto

This excellent, versatile food wine builds on Marinella's lofty Corte Sant' Alda estate, where white soils and organic viticulture combine to give wines of great purity, the supplest of tannins and drinkability; added to which the top 2006 vintage adds a licorice juiciness. Fermented and aged in large 14hl cherry oak tini, there's a distinct sense of harmony and gentleness that flies in the face of wannabe Valpolicella desperate for points. Great with all sorts of meats, particularly pork.
(David Berry Green, BBR Buyer)

"Very attractive aromatics of plum and sour cherry welcome the imbiber of this delicious Ripasso which also delivers its notable rush of sweet, dried fruit courtesy of the interaction it undergoes with the warm lees of Amarone . The palate, though also demonstrating this sweet approach, is well balanced, the edginess of bitter cherry presenting a complimentary savoury note. The supple tannins make this wine dangerously easy to drink! But savour it and you will be rewarded. I suggest pairing it with a little selection of your favourite delectables; game terrine, cheese, freshly baked bread and a little sun blushed tomato perhaps. Delicious!"
(Adam Holden, London Shop Manager)