The Soave Classico region with its volcanic soil is one of the areas making some of the best Italian white wines that are mineral laden, and often gently fruited, while remaining stimulating. One of the top 5 names to remember would certainly include that of Graziano Pra, who helped re-energize the Soave DOCG through his efforts with the Vignaioli del Soave Indipendente.
In 2001, he decided to plant vines in the area sandwiched between the Valpolicella and Soave Classico zones. The soil here is glacial with southeast exposure and elevation of 450 meters. The resulting wines, Valpolicella, the Morandina Ripasso, as well as Amarone are much more red fruited than usual, at times reminiscent of Grenache with kirsch liqueur aromatics.
For the Ripasso Morandina, the traditional blend of Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, and Oseleta- is fermented and then pressed through the grape skins of Amarone for 2nd fermentation to gain more structure, texture and bouquet. This then is then matured for 18 months, partly in barriques, partly in Allier oak casks.
For the 2013 vintage, James Suckling described “This has an exuberant nose of blackberries with wild strawberries and dried herbs. The palate is full and juicy, showing polished tannins and a clean finish. Very well-made. A traditional red blend from Valpolicella with corvina, corvinone, rondinella and oseleta. Amazing Valpo! 94 points
