2003 La Colombaia Valpolicella Ripasso - $15.00

May 28, 2006

Background: Here's another Italian wine with an interesting history. This wine comes from the Veneto area in Northeast Italy. The word "ripasso" literally means "repassed", referring to the process of taking dried grape skins left over from the "amarone" process and re-passing the wine through another fermentation stage. "Amarone" is a higher alcohol wine made from dried grapes.  

My Tasting Notes: Ruby color with a tinge of rust on the edges. Long legs. The nose had a light hint of prunes. Fruity with flavors of raisins, prunes, and cherries. The color, legs, and flavor reminded me of ruby port, but without the overpowering sweetness and alcohol.  Light on tannins. The fact that it's made with grapes from the "amarone" process explains the port-like flavors. I typically enjoy thicker wines, but the sweetness of this wine gave you the sensation of drinking something sappy. It coated your entire mouth. I think maybe a 20-30 minute chill would have improved this wine.

The Meal: Spaghetti and sausage sauce leftover from the other night. A little fruity for the meal, but better than the Nozzole Chianti.

My Score: 79

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