Valpolicella Superiore DOC - Casalpietra 0.75L

A Valpolicella that shows what the high altitudes of Valpantena are capable of: not a heavy Amarone shadow, but a dry red wine with a clear structure and genuine character.

The Ottella winery, run by brothers Francesco and Michele Montresor, is located on the southeastern shore of Lake Garda and has been cultivating vineyards in the Veneto region for generations. The Casalpietra grape grows at an altitude of around 400 meters in the Valpolicella Valpantena – one of the northern, cooler zones of the appellation. Calcareous, marl-rich soils from the Pink Dolomites and a Mediterranean microclimate allow the Corvina Veronese grapes time to develop depth without losing their freshness.

In the glass, the variety reveals itself as it should: sour cherry, a hint of dried herbs, subtle spicy notes. The body is medium-bodied, the tannins present but not harsh, and the acidity enlivens the finish. A wine that's meant to be drunk, not waited for.

Serve it at 16–18 °C with pasta al ragù, grilled lamb chops, or a mature pecorino cheese. It also makes a great, uncomplicated accompaniment to regional antipasti.