The 2014 Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore Santambrogio shows smokey tones of campfire ash and scorched earth. Dark fruit appears on the close , but with reduced intensity. In fact, those savory and smokey tones definitely take the upper hand. The tannins are dusty and the wine is lean in texture.

A balanced, easy-drinking red, with light tannins and a tangy palate of lingonberry, grilled herb, wood smoke and licorice notes. Drink now. 5,000 cases made.??–AN??Region: Italy / Valpolicella Classico Select to Add

The 2010 Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore Santambrogio sees secondary fermentation on the skins of both Recioto and Amarone wines. That process gives the wine a forthright and ample bouquet with tones of pressed rose, dried fruit, spice, cola, leather and barbecue smoke. Ultimately, it delivers more intensity to the nose. The mouthfeel is streamlined, compact and relatively simple. Drink 2013-2016. Not far from the Adige River and the Via Brennero that eventually snakes its way to Northern Europe by way of the Brenner Pass, Cantine Aldegheri is an old-school winery founded in 1956 and managed today by various members of the historic Aldegheri family. The winery is nestled within the urban fabric of Sant’Ambrogio di Valpolicella, suggesting that much of the town was built after the cantina was established. Fruit is sourced from hillside plots totaling 42 hectares in Valpolicella, including estate vineyards and contracted farmers. A visit to the winery reveals a no-nonsense operation with practical applications for the considerable volume produced. Importer: Testa Wines; www.testawines.com