From: Valpolicella, Verona, Veneto, Italy
Varietal: Corvina Veronese, Corvinone, Rondinella
Taste: In the glass this displays a deep ruby-red hue with garnet reflections. The nose is expressive and layered, revealing ripe red and black fruits such as cherry, plum, and blackberry, interwoven with dried fig and raisin notes that hint at the appassimento influence. Subtle undertones of spices, including cinnamon and clove, mingle with aromas of dark chocolate, tobacco, and a touch of vanilla from the oak aging, adding to the wine’s aromatic complexity. On the palate, ‘La Casetta’ is full-bodied and velvety, with a balance between its vibrant acidity and well-integrated tannins. Flavors of juicy cherry, blackcurrant, and plum dominate, supported by nuances of dried fruit, spice, and earthy undertones. The wine’s mid-palate reveals hints of licorice and toasted almond, leading to a long, satisfying finish with a lingering touch of sweet spice and subtle minerality.
Pairing: From Italian classics, it pairs beautifully with duck confit with cherry reduction, where the richness of the duck and the sweet-tart cherry sauce mirror the wine’s fruity and spicy notes, as well as pasta with wild boar ragu, whose hearty and savory flavors are a natural match for Ripasso’s structure and depth. The wine’s vibrant acidity and dark fruit flavors also complement non-Italian dishes like shepherd’s pie, where the savory lamb filling and creamy mashed potatoes enhance the wine’s richness. The sweet-savory interplay of Peking duck pairs seamlessly with the wine’s dried fruit character, while the smoky, spicy complexity of beef and black bean chili provides a bold counterpoint to its structure. For lighter pairings, spanakopita offers a salty, creamy contrast to the wine’s tannins, while the smoky and savory depth of barbecue brisket resonates with Ripasso’s robust and fruit-forward profile.
Ripasso’s medium to full body, bold flavors, and firm tannins make it an excellent match for bold and flavorful dishes. Foods rich in umami, such as mushrooms, aged cheeses, and slow-cooked meats, enhance the wine’s fruitiness and complexity, creating a harmonious pairing. However, avoiding overly delicate or light foods is best, as Ripasso’s bold character can easily overpower them. Dishes with creamy or rich textures provide a perfect counterbalance to the wine’s acidity and tannins. At the same time, earthy ingredients like root vegetables, truffles, and warm spices complement its dried fruit and spice notes.
Pressure Cooker Classic Beef Chili
By Melissa Clark
About: Domìni Veneti is a renowned name in Italian wine, celebrated for its exceptional representation of the Valpolicella region in Veneto. Established in 1989 as the premium label of Cantina Valpolicella Negrar, the brand emerged as part of an ambitious Quality Project to identify and cultivate particularly suitable areas within Valpolicella. By working closely with winemakers and focusing on careful vineyard selection, Domìni Veneti has created a portfolio of highly prized Veronese wines, including DOC, DOCG, and IGT classifications, with a special emphasis on crus.
The origins of the Domìni Veneti name are steeped in history. The name references the territories of the Serenissima Republic of Venice during its 16th-century grandeur when Valpolicella was an integral part of its domain. This connection is reflected in the brand’s values, which blend historical refinement with exclusivity. Domìni Veneti’s mission is to honor this legacy while crafting wines that elevate the unique characteristics of Valpolicella’s terroir.
