Cesari, Valpolicella Classico (Veneto, Italy) 2011

The reputation of the wines from Valpolicella has been checkered.  Initially very popular 40 years ago as Americans were exploring Italian wines, Valpolicella fell out of favor partially because the quality of the wines we saw in the US slipped and partially because Americans’ tastes changed to embrace bigger and bolder wines.  Fortunately, both these trends have changed.  The wines from Valpolicella imported to the US currently have never been better and consumers are looking for mid-weight, lip smacking reds to enjoy with hearty pasta dishes.  And that’s a very good reason to try Cesari’s 2011 Valpolicella Classico.  The Classico designation means it comes from the heart, or best part, of the region.  Bright red fruit with a touch of savory earthiness makes it a good choice for pasta and a meat sauce.