From: Valpolicella, Veneto, Italy
Blend: Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, Molinara and others.
Taste & Critical Acclaim: A classic expression of Valpolicella Ripasso from one of the region’s most revered producers. The 2019 Ca' del Laito showcases an elegant depth and richness that Bussola is known for. On the nose, ripe red cherries, dried plums, and blackberries mingle with earthy tones of tobacco, leather, and subtle spice. The palate is smooth and full-bodied, with velvety tannins, offering layers of dried fruit, dark chocolate, and savory herbs. A balanced acidity keeps the richness in check, making this Ripasso an excellent companion for grilled meats, hearty pastas, or aged cheeses. The finish is long and satisfying, with a lingering note of dried cherries and spice. A brilliant wine that reflects both tradition and craftsmanship.
91 Wine Spectator
Review Date: 07/2024
A well-meshed red, with taut, lightly chalky tannins framing notes of black cherry, boysenberry paste, wild sage, cocoa powder and fresh earth through the creamy, spiced finish. Corvina, Corvinone and Rondinella. Drink now through 2019. 3,000 cases made. (AN)
Pairing: Wines like this one are heaven-sent when one craves comfort foods. Some ideas include serving this alongside grilled, barbecued, braised, or stuffed meats, like roast beef, short ribs, or lamb ragù. Beef stew, pasta with meat sauce, mushroom risotto, Moroccan cuisine, or Osso Buco would also be excellent pairs. Vegetarian dishes that center around mushrooms, potatoes, or butternut squash with warming spices would fit wonderfully in the theme of this wine. (The recipe we’re sharing below is inspired by the notes above.)
Lamb Stew With Chickpeas and Butternut Squash
By Molly O’Neill
Many thanks to the fine folks at Rare Wine Co. for the following information on this exceptional producer.
Overview
- Tommaso Bussola was a pioneering viticulturist in Valpolicella, one whose wines displayed such a density and complexity of fruit that they transcended previous paradigms.
- Today, Tomasso's two sons, Giuseppe and Paolo, are building upon and refining their father's unique style, crafting wines of even greater elegance and finesse.
- The estate's normale range is easily among the region's finest values, while the late-released Riservas rank among the region's most remarkable and beloved wines.
When Veneto legend Giuseppe Quintarelli was asked years ago to name the region’s next superstar, he didn’t hesitate: Tommaso Bussola.
Quintarelli's prediction began to be realized in 1999, when Tommaso’s 1995 wines were released. Among the countless accolades he received, Gambero Rosso gave him the first of many Tre Bicchieris for his majestic Recioto TB. And 20+ years later, that prophetic answer has been born out by a stream of monumental Valpolicellas, Amarones, and Reciotos.
This wine.
Valpolicella Ripasso "Ca' del Laito"— With 3-4 years of aging, the Ca'del Laito bottling is intended to be ready for drinking on release. The ripasso process gives much of the fruit and spice of Amarone, but with lower octane that makes it incredibly versatile at the table.
Vineyard
The Ca' del Laito bottling is sourced from a range of vineyards in the area of Montecchio di Negrar. The vineyards are Coste (planted in 2015), Senge (planted in 2000), Cain (planted in 2005), Coare Longhe e Giulia (planted from 1990-2000) and, starting with the 2020 vintage, from Trapola (planted from 1940 to 1990!).
Orientation
Expositions range from Southwest to Southeast. Elevations range from 420 to 450 meters in elevation.
Soil
Coste - Basaltic Clay Senge - Basaltic Clay Cain - Clay Coare Longhe e Giulia - Clay & Limestone Trapola - Clay with Volcanic Sediment.
Viticulture
Hand-harvested from younger vines ranging from 5 to 30 years old.
Vinification
After harvest in mid October, the wine ferments in stainless steel. In February and March they pass the wine over the pressed grapes used to make their Amarone.
Aging
Aged for 23-24 months in third passage oak - 50% barriques and 50% 12-25 hectoliter botti grandi.
Notes
Ca’del Laito was a place-name for a vineyard that straddles the ridge above Quintarelli. Tommaso purchased the vineyard (and the little workhouse there) from Masi in ~2002.
