Michele Castellani
Valpolicella Ripasso San Michele 2019
Vineyard
Castellani has 17 hectares of certified organic vineyards near their estate in Borgata, in Valpolicella Classico. Colle Cristi comes from the upper portion of the hill which has more limestone in the soil. Vines are primarily pergola trained, which is well suited to this area, and to Corvina in particular. The leaves protect the grapes from direct sun and the heat radiates from the ground – a natural temperature control that allows a longer ripening period. This gives the skins and juice more time to ripen in unison.
Winemaking
This wine is made via the ripasso method, whereby fermentation is triggered in a finished Valpolicella Classico by placing the unpressed grape skins of Castellani’s Amarone on top. After pressing the skins off the wine, it is aged for at least 2 years, with 18 months in mid-size Slavonian oak barrels and French wooden casks.
Tasting Note
This wine has aromas of blackberries, plums, cedar, and spice. It is medium-bodied and supple on the palate, with polished tannins and balanced acidity.
Color
Red