Le Ragose, Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore DOC (Veneto, Italy) 2021 ($25, Carolina Wine Brands USA)

Let’s unravel the words in the DOC. Ripasso means that the producer has beefed-up the classic light-bodied Valpolicella by re-fermenting the wine on discarded skins of the dried grapes that had been used to make Amarone. Think of it as a Valpolicella on steroids. The Classico refers to the central or historic area of production and the Superiore refers to the level of ripeness as measured by a slightly higher level of minimum alcohol. Le Ragose offsets the ripeness and roundness of their 2021 with good balancing acidity. This winter wine offers up hints of fresh and dried fruits. Even a touch of chocolate-like richness appears. Great vibrancy and fine tannins balance and support its plushness.
92 Michael Apstein