# Bonacosta Valpolicella Classico (2015)

- **Producer:** Masi
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Corvina, Rondinella, Molinara
- **Region:** Veneto, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.0%
- **Average price:** €13
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Passed
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cherry, plum, redcurrant, vanilla, leather, mushroom

## About this wine

Masi's Bonacosta Valpolicella Classico is a historic representation of the Verona region, crafted by the Boscaini family whose winemaking heritage dates back to 1772. Sourced from the gentle slopes of the Valpolicella Classico zone, this wine represents the traditional, fresh style of the region. It famously earned literary fame when Ernest Hemingway praised it in his novel 'Across the River and into the Trees' as a friendly, light red wine. The 2015 vintage benefited from a warm, sunny growing season, adding a touch of extra roundness to this classic cuvée.

## Interesting facts

- Ernest Hemingway famously praised this style of Valpolicella in his novel 'Across the River and into the Trees' as a friendly, light red.
- The Boscaini family has been producing wine in the region since 1772, starting in the 'Vaio dei Masi' valley.
- While Masi is famous for its dried-grape Appassimento wines, Bonacosta is made entirely from fresh grapes to emphasize brightness.

## Food pairing

This light-to-medium-bodied red wine relies on its vibrant acidity and soft tannins to cut through rich, savory dishes without overwhelming them. Its bright red fruit profile complements roasted poultry and earthy mushroom dishes, while its crispness cleanses the palate when paired with cured meats and medium-aged cheeses.

## Wine making process

The grapes—Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara—are harvested by hand from hillside vineyards. Vinification takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks for approximately 20 days to preserve the bright, primary fruit characteristics. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for about 6 months in a combination of traditional Slavonian and Allier oak barrels, which softens the structure without overpowering the fruit. It undergoes a final month of bottle refinement before release.