Recioto della Valpolicella

"Recioto della Valpolicella" is a red wine with a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO). Recioto della Valpolicella can also be designed with the references Classico and Valpantena, and Recioto della Valpolicella Spumante can also be designed with the reference Valpantena.

Grapes

The production of "Recioto della Valpolicella" is made using grapes from different varieties, with different quotas. The main grape variety is Corvina Veronese, which represents between 45% and 95% of the total (Corvinone is also allowed). Then there is Rondinella, between 5% and 30%. The remaining part can be produced with non-aromatic red grapes (maximum 15%) suitable for cultivation in the province of Verona.

Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties

"Recioto della Valpolicella" has a rather strong red colour, embellished by purplish reflections, which turn to garnet with ageing. The aroma is characteristic and accentuated, while the taste is full and velvety, warm, delicate and sweet. In the Spumante version, the aroma and flavour acquire intensity and fullness and the wine is accompanied by a fine and persistent foam. The minimum actual alcoholic strength by volume for both types is 12.00% vol.

Grape production area

The area of production of "Recioto della Valpolicella" wines coincides with the foothills of Verona and extends from Lake Garda to almost the province of Vicenza. It is a large area that alternates hills and valleys and boasts a mild climate and not excessively rainy.

Specificity and historical notes

The name "Recioto" derives from the dialectal term "recia", which indicates the ear. The traditional technique of production of this wine, in fact, involved the use of only the upper part of the bunch, the one most exposed to the sun and therefore most valuable.