# Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore DOC (2017)

- **Producer:** Azienda Agricola Tezza
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Corvina, Rondinella
- **Region:** Veneto, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Passed
- **Serving temperature:** 16–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** ripe fruit, red cherry, black cherry, black plum, cloves, chocolate, vanilla, cedar, coffee, leather, caramel, tobacco, earth

## About this wine

The Tezza Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore DOC 2017 is a red wine from the Valpantena sub-region of Veneto, Italy. Its distinctiveness stems from the Ripasso method, a second fermentation on the lees of Amarone or Recioto wines, which enhances its complexity and body. The Azienda Agricola Tezza, owned and operated by the Tezza family for three generations since 1960, is committed to authenticity, transparency, and quality. Their vineyards are situated in Valpantena, benefiting from calcareous soils and a temperate climate. The 2017 vintage is positioned for consumption between 2022 and 2024.

## Interesting facts

- Ripasso means 'repassed' in Italian, referring to the wine's second fermentation.
- The Tezza family has been making wine since 1960.
- Vineyards are farmed using organic protocols.
- The wine is aged for a total of 36 months before release.

## Food pairing

The wine's firm tannins and full body complement the richness of proteins like beef and pork, while its bright acidity cuts through fatty elements. The savory notes in the wine also harmonize with tomato-based sauces and grilled meats.

## Wine making process

The Tezza Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore DOC is produced using grapes from vineyards in Valpantena. After destemming and crushing with selected yeasts, fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled steel vats, employing the délestage method for extraction. A crucial step is the refermentation on Amarone marc, characteristic of the Ripasso technique. The wine is then aged for 24 months in French and Slavonian oak barrels, followed by 12 months of bottle aging. Azienda Agricola Tezza adheres to organic farming protocols, utilizing natural and integrated pest management methods.