Ravazzol Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 2019

An intense, markedly profound Amarone. On the nose, black cherries and dark berries, joined by coffee and fine dark chocolate. The richness comes at no cost to structure: the wine remains mineral and complex.

The grapes come from the historic Valpolicella Classico zones of Marano and Fumane and grow on limestone. Cà la Bionda farms 29 hectares of terraced hillside vineyards in the Marano valley, between 150 and 300 metres, facing east-southeast, with clay-limestone soils. The wine takes its name from the Ravazzol vineyard, whose vines are 50 to 70 years old.

Corvina, Corvinone and Rondinella. Fermentation happens spontaneously with wild yeasts, after which the wine ages for at least 36 months in large wooden barrels. The result is 16% alcohol by volume, fully fermented and dry.

Dense, dark fruit richness meets pronounced fruit sweetness, joined by youthful tannin and lively acidity. A bold style that holds its power in tension while still showing finesse.

Pairs well with richly aromatic dishes with slightly sweet notes and piquant cheeses.

Founded in 1902, the estate is now run by brothers Alessandro and Nicola Castellani in the fourth generation, Alessandro in the cellar, Nicola in the vineyards. Organic farming has been practised since 2012; Brogna sheep, an endangered breed native to the Veneto, graze between the vine rows, keeping the grass short and fertilising it naturally. As FIVI co-founders, the brothers stand for independent winegrowing craftsmanship, and they have deliberately reduced Amarone production. The Ravazzol 2019 was awarded Tre Bicchieri by Gambero Rosso.