Get to know these incredible, diverse wines.

Italy is home to so many incredible wines, but Valpolicella might not immediately spring to mind. Between all the prosecco, Chianti and other celebrated styles coming out of Italy’s great regions – think Piedmont, Sicily, Tuscany and more – these red wines tend to get a little overlooked. This is despite the fact Valpolicella wines are some of Italy’s most unique drops, and they also make up a decent chunk of the nation’s total wine production.

If you’re not familiar with Valpolicella, allow us to introduce you to these versatile Italian red wines.

What are Valpolicella wines?

Valpolicella wines are made from three key red grape varieties – corvina, rondinella and molinara – although some others are also allowed in the mix. These varieties and their various blends produce wines with a wide range of flavours and characters across four core styles.

Valpolicella Classico are traditionally light, aromatic and fresh with good acidity, while Valpolicella Ripasso are medium-bodied and richer with darker fruit flavours. Amarone della Valpolicella are the most distinctive of the lot, thanks to their unique production process. These wines are made from dried grapes, which amps up their concentrated fruit flavours, creating rich, bold and intense wines (‘amarone’ translates to ‘great bitter’). Consider those styles the ultimate choice for anyone who believes bigger is always better when it comes to red wine. Finally, there are Recioto della Valpolicella wines, which are sweet, dessert styles.

Where do Valpolicella wines come from?

Valpolicella wines are made in their namesake region, which lies in Verona, east of Lake Garda, within the broader Veneto region. This wine-growing area is in the north-east of Italy, in easy reach of Venice. Its hilly landscape and mild climate are ideal for growing and ripening the key grape varieties that go into these wines. Beyond the Valpolicella region, Veneto is best known for its prosecco as well as its flagship white wine, Soave, which is made from the garganega variety.

What to expect from Valpolicella wines?

Given the various styles on offer, Valpolicella’s flavours and characters will depend on which wine you choose. If you enjoy Beaujolais, or young gamay, then you’ll love the light and fresh red wines of Valpolicella Classico. If you prefer a medium-bodied red with a little more depth and structure, then Valpolicella Ripasso is the way to go. As mentioned, if you’re a fan of big, bold, rich red wines, then Amarone della Valpolicella will absolutely meet the brief. And if you have a soft spot for tawny and other intense fortifieds and dessert wines, then go for a Recioto della Valpolicella, which is a sweeter style.

3 Valpolicella wines to try

1. Sartori Montegradella Valpolicella Classico Superiore

Made with a majority of corvina (45%), this wine also includes corvinone, rondinella and croatina, which add complexity. It is a deep ruby colour, with a juicy palate of ripe fruit flavours like plum and cassis, along with a hint of herbs. This is an excellent introduction to these wines.

$24.99 each

$23.80 in any six

2. Tommasi Valpolicella

If you like your reds bursting with fresh fruit aromas, this is for you. A lighter style, this wine still has plenty going on, with cherry and strawberry flavours, bright acidity and super light tannins. It’s a vibrant style that’s an excellent sub for pinot noir and lighter grenache styles, too.

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$30 EachNon-Member: $32.99 Each

3. Monte Tondo San Pietro Valpolicella

For a richer style, the Monte Tondo San Pietro is a great example. Expect complex aromas of rich florals – think violets and roses – as well as red fruit and sour cherry notes, which all follow through to the flavours, along with a touch of spice.

$38.99 each

$37.10 in any six