Valpolicella

Italian wine region

Valpolicella is a renowned wine region located in the province of Verona, in the Veneto region of Italy. Known for its rich history and diverse wine production, Valpolicella is particularly famous for its Amarone and Recioto wines.

Geography

Map of the Province of Verona

Valpolicella is situated to the north of Verona, extending from the Adige River to the Lessini Mountains. The region is characterized by its rolling hills and fertile valleys, which provide an ideal environment for viticulture. The climate is generally mild, with the nearby Lake Garda moderating temperatures and providing a unique microclimate.

History

The history of winemaking in Valpolicella dates back to ancient times, with evidence of viticulture in the area during the Roman era. The name "Valpolicella" is believed to derive from the Latin "Vallis-polis-cellae," meaning "valley of many cellars," highlighting the region's long-standing association with wine production.

Viticulture

Vineyards in Valpolicella

The vineyards of Valpolicella are planted primarily with indigenous grape varieties, including Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara. These grapes are the foundation of the region's wines, contributing to their distinctive flavors and aromas. The region's diverse terroir, with its mix of clay, limestone, and volcanic soils, further enhances the complexity of the wines produced here.

Wine Production

Valpolicella wines are produced in several styles, ranging from light and fruity to rich and full-bodied. The most notable wines include:

Valpolicella Classico

This is the traditional style of Valpolicella wine, known for its light body and fresh, fruity character. It is typically made from a blend of Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara grapes.

Amarone della Valpolicella

Amarone della Valpolicella labels

Amarone is a powerful and complex wine made using the appassimento process, where grapes are dried before fermentation to concentrate their sugars and flavors. This results in a full-bodied wine with high alcohol content and rich flavors of dried fruit, chocolate, and spice.

Recioto della Valpolicella

Recioto is a sweet wine made from partially dried grapes, similar to Amarone but with fermentation stopped early to retain residual sugar. It is often enjoyed as a dessert wine.

Ripasso della Valpolicella

Ripasso Valpolicella

Ripasso is a unique style of wine that involves "repassing" Valpolicella wine over the pomace of Amarone or Recioto, enhancing its body and complexity. This technique imparts additional flavors and structure to the wine.

Grapes

Grapes growing in Valpolicella

The primary grape varieties used in Valpolicella wines are:

• Corvina: Known for its bright cherry flavors and high acidity, Corvina is the dominant grape in Valpolicella blends.
• Rondinella: This grape adds floral and herbal notes to the wine, as well as contributing to its color and structure.
• Molinara: Although less commonly used today, Molinara provides acidity and a light, fresh character to the blend.

Tourism

View from Castelrotto to Pedemonte

Valpolicella is a popular destination for wine tourism, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its scenic vineyards, historic wineries, and charming villages. Wine tastings and tours are widely available, providing insights into the region's winemaking traditions and techniques.

Related pages

• Amarone della Valpolicella
• Recioto della Valpolicella
• Veneto (wine)
• Italian wine