Quintarelli Primofiore Primofiore IGP

The Primofiore is Quintarelli's entry-level wine – and even here, the legend from Negrar shows what is possible for Venetian red wines.

Giuseppe Quintarelli is considered one of the most important winemakers in the Veneto. His winery in the hills of Negrar, east of Lake Garda, has stood for uncompromising manual labor for decades: low yields, long maceration times, and aging in large wooden barrels. The Primofiore is made from the classic Valpolicella grape varieties – Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella – and follows the same approach, just with a shorter aging period.

In the glass, it shows dark cherry, blackberry, and a hint of dried plum, plus black pepper and a light tobacco note. The body is medium-firm, the tannins soft enough for early enjoyment, and the acidity keeps the wine lively. The finish is warm and long for this category.

Serving temperature: 16–18 °C. Pairs with pasta al ragù, grilled leg of lamb, or spicy hard cheeses like Pecorino stagionato.