Ripasso ('re-passed') Valpolicella is a luxurious style that falls between lighter Valpolicella and heavier Amarone. Each of these is a different version of the same wine. As soon as pressing of dried grapes for Amarone is completed, selected lots of young Valpolicella are then re-passed over the Amarone pomace. This initiates a second fermentation, which slightly increases alcohol content and gives the wine deeper color, higher density, and headier aromas. After 18 months in large French & Slavonian oak barrels, this blend of primarily Corvina and Rondinella (plus a little Molinara and Negrara-Pelara) has a sophisticated palate and very long finish. Straight from Umberto & Guiseppe Zanconte's 50 acres overlooking the village of Negrar. Flavor Profile: Lighter medium-bodied, dry. Pale ruby color with a very aromatic nose of mint, anise, and spice. The palate follows with black fruit, smoked herbs, cherry, noisette, and amaro with plenty of balancing minerals, tannins, and acids. A superbly elegant wine with 6 years of age built-in. Pair with risotto and Gorgonzola, roast meats, pasta with meat sauce, and mild Mexican food. 13.5% ABV.