Tommasi Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2021 Wine Review

Natalie's Score: 92/100

This wine uses a fascinating technique called ripasso, where the wine is re-passed over the dried grape skins left from making Amarone, another terrific Italian red wine. It's like giving the wine a second education, a master’s degree, adding richness and complexity. This wine is a beautiful deep ruby color with aromas of black cherry, dried fig, and hints of dark chocolate and espresso. On the palate, it's velvety and smooth with soft tannins and a long, warming finish perfect for holiday evenings. Ripasso was originally invented to avoid wasting the leftover grape skins from making Amarone. Italians are masters of zero waste in the cellar. They were upcycling before it was cool. Now this rich wine needs equally substantial pairings. I'd pair this with: slow-braised short ribs that fall apart at the touch of a fork, their mahogany glaze glistening, surrounded by roasted root vegetables caramelized to concentrated sweetness. mushroom risotto with porcini and shiitake creating earthy depth in the creamy arborio rice, each spoonful releasing steam infused with truffle oil and parmesan. aged Manchego cheese with its firm texture breaking into nutty, slightly sharp bites that complement the wine's dried fruit character perfectly. osso buco with fork-tender veal shanks nestled in rich tomato sauce studded with orange zest, the marrow adding luxurious richness. dark chocolate torte with a dense, fudgy center and a thin crisp top, garnished with espresso-spiked whipped cream that echoes the wine's coffee notes.

Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore food pairings: pizza topped with steak strips and garlic, spicy sausage , prime rib roast, hearty winter stew.

Spectacular Spicy Wine

This Tommasi Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2021 was reviewed on December 5, 2025 by Natalie MacLean

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