Grapes: Corvina (45%), Rondinella (35%), Molinara (15%), Negrara Pelara (5%)

Located in the heart of Valpolicella, Veneto, Ca Del Monte's 20 hectares of vineyards are owned by brothers Umberto and Guiseppe Zaconte. In the family for generations, Cal del Monte is situated on hillsides that face south and southwest, planted with 20-40 year old vines of Corvina, Rodinella and Molinara grapes that are planted in poor soils that stress the vines and nurture the fruit. Producing wines here for six generations, the brothers oversee all steps of production of their wines.

Their Ripasso shows a pure red-berry/black-cherry bouquet with grilled herbs, iris, violet and almond. Despite the depth of flavors, it is silky and warm with a surprisingly elegant mid-weight mouth feel that finishes with plump fruit and a well integrated spicy oak ouch.