Corte Figaretto 'Altarol' Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore DOC
Full-bodied Red. Produced using the Ripasso method to add richness, alcohol, and complexity to the base Valpolicella wine. · Corte Figaretto. A family-run boutique estate located in Valpantena, Verona. Owned by the Pigini family, they have gained a significant reputation for producing concentrated, high-quality artisanal wines using traditional Veronese methods with a modern, clean precision.
Vintage: 2020/2021 (Estimated based on current release). The recent vintages in Veneto have been generally very good to excellent, characterized by healthy harvests and balanced physiological ripeness, providing structured wines with vibrant fruit.
Type
Full-bodied Red. Produced using the Ripasso method to add richness, alcohol, and complexity to the base Valpolicella wine.
Producer
Corte Figaretto. A family-run boutique estate located in Valpantena, Verona. Owned by the Pigini family, they have gained a significant reputation for producing concentrated, high-quality artisanal wines using traditional Veronese methods with a modern, clean precision.
Country
Italy. A historic wine nation defined by diverse indigenous varieties and strict DOC/DOCG laws. Italian wine culture is deeply linked to regional cuisine and the concept of terroir-driven expressions.
Vintage
2020/2021 (Estimated based on current release). The recent vintages in Veneto have been generally very good to excellent, characterized by healthy harvests and balanced physiological ripeness, providing structured wines with vibrant fruit.
Region & Appellation
Veneto, Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore DOC. This designation implies a higher minimum alcohol content and longer aging than standard Valpolicella, utilizing the 'ripasso' technique (refermenting on Amarone grape skins).
Grape Varieties
Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, and small percentages of Molinara or Oseleta. Corvina provides structure and cherry notes, while Corvinone adds spice and Rondinella contributes color and floral aromatics.
Color & Appearance
Deep ruby red with garnet reflections. It shows high viscosity with thick legs, indicating high extract and alcohol; clarity is brilliant.
Aroma Profile
Intense and complex. Primary aromas of black cherry, plum, and wild berries. Secondary notes of spice and black pepper. Tertiary notes include tobacco, leather, and vanilla from oak aging.
Tasting Notes
The wine enters the palate with power and warmth. It is remarkably smooth with well-integrated tannins. The finish is long and persistent, echoing dried fruits and sweet spice. It is a harmonious wine that balances boldness with elegance.
Flavor Profile
Dense flavors of Marasca cherry, blackberry jam, and cloves. There are underlying hints of dark chocolate, balsamic notes, and a subtle toastiness from the barrel.
Body & Texture
Full-bodied with a velvety, plush texture. It feels rich and coating on the tongue, showing great concentration of fruit without being cloying.
Acidity & Tannins
Medium-plus acidity provides freshness to balance the high extract. Tannins are firm yet silky and fine-grained, characteristic of quality Ripasso.
Sweetness Level
Dry to Off-dry (Technically dry, but often has a high perception of sweetness due to alcohol and ripe fruit extract, typical for the style).
Alcohol Content
Approximately 14% - 14.5% ABV. The alcohol is well-integrated but provides a noticeable, pleasant warmth to the body.
Aging & Oak
Aged for approximately 12 months in French oak barrels (barrels and tonneaux). This softens the grape tannins and infuses the wine with spice and vanilla complexity.
Food Pairings
Ideal for Autumn in Brazil. Pairs perfectly with Picanha, hearty stews, Risotto al Amarone, or aged cheeses like Grana Padano. The wine's weight handles charred meats and rich reductions excellently.
Serving Suggestions
Serve at 16-18°C (60-64°F) in a large Bordeaux glass. Decanting for 30-60 minutes is highly recommended to let the tertiary aromas bloom.
Price Range
Approximately $25 - $40 USD RRP. In Brazil, price may vary due to import duties (approx. R$ 200 - R$ 350). It represents excellent value compared to Amarone.
Quality Assessment
91-93 points. A super-premium example of the Ripasso style that often outperforms its price point. Consistent, balanced, and highly expressive of the Valpantena sub-zone.
Production Methods
Standard Valpolicella fermentation followed by a second fermentation in contact with the warm pomace of Amarone grapes (Ripasso technique), followed by oak aging.
Terroir
Clay and limestone soils in the Valpantena valley. South-facing slopes with excellent sun exposure and cooling evening breezes from the Lessini mountains, maintaining aromatic freshness.
History & Heritage
Corte Figaretto is located in a historic farming area between the village of Poiano and Quinto. While modern in its technical approach, it honors the centuries-old tradition of drying and refermenting grapes endemic to Verona.
Interesting Facts
The label features a striking, minimalist 'face' or mask emerging from darkness, representing the 'Altarol' (a small altar/shrine found in vineyards), blending mysterious art with agricultural tradition.
Cellaring Potential
Excellent aging trajectory. It is drinking beautifully now but will continue to develop complexity over the next 5-8 years if stored in a cool, dark place (peak 2024-2028).
Similar Wines
Zenato Valpolicella Ripasso, Tommasi 'Ripasso', or Masi 'Campofiorin'. Also appeals to fans of New World Zinfandel or Australian Shiraz due to its fruit intensity.