Wine at the Table
Valpolicella Ripasso
The short answer
Valpolicella Ripasso is a medium-to-full-bodied red from Veneto, made by re-fermenting Valpolicella wine on Amarone skins. This technique adds richness and complexity, creating a wine with some of Amarone's character at a more accessible price.
- Style
- Baby Amarone, Veneto
- Glass
- Large Bordeaux style glass
- Strength
- 13% to 14.5%
Where it comes from
The 'ripasso' technique is a tradition in the Veneto region, though it gained formal legal recognition more recently. It was developed to add complexity and body to standard Valpolicella without the high cost of full Amarone production.
What you need
- 1 bottle of Valpolicella Ripasso
- Serving temperature: 17°C / 62°F
How Larry builds it
- 01
Control Temperature. Serve slightly below room temperature to keep the fruit flavors vibrant and the alcohol balanced.
- 02
Aerate. Uncork the bottle about 30 minutes before serving to allow the wine to breathe and soften its tannins.
- 03
Serve and Pair. Pour into wide glasses. This wine pairs excellently with mushroom risotto, grilled sausages, or aged cheeses.
Larry’s rule: Amarone flavor at a Tuesday price.
Variations worth making
Valpolicella Superiore
A step up from standard Valpolicella that is aged longer but does not use the ripasso method.
Amarone della Valpolicella
The intense, full-bodied parent wine made entirely from dried grapes, whose skins are used for Ripasso.
Questions people ask
What does 'Ripasso' mean?
It means 're-passed,' referring to the process of passing the Valpolicella wine over Amarone grape skins for a second fermentation.
Is Ripasso sweet?
It is a dry wine, though it can have a perception of richness and ripe fruit due to the influence of the dried Amarone skins.
Can I age Ripasso?
Yes, many Ripasso wines can be aged for 5 to 10 years, developing more complexity, though they are also enjoyable young.
What grape is Ripasso made from?
It is primarily made from the Corvina grape, often blended with Rondinella and other local varieties, just like Valpolicella and Amarone.
What to eat with it
Pour it like Larry
The decanters, openers and glasses Larry keeps behind the bar.
Le Chateau Hand-Blown Crystal Wine Decanter with AeratorView on Amazon →
RBT Wine Decanter with Sediment Strainer & AeratorView on Amazon →
Chateau La Derive Swan Decanter Gift SetView on Amazon →
1800ml Lead-Free Crystal Wine Decanter SetView on Amazon →
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Order Valpolicella Ripasso with sausage and peppers at the spots on Larry’s lists:
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