Ca'Rugate Valpolicella DOC "Rio Albo", Veneto

Producer Note

The family business has been handed down through the generations of the Tessari family since the early 1900s. The estate was renamed Ca'Rugate in 1986, taking its name from the volcanic hills where the vineyards are located. Now run by the fourth generation, Michele has brought with him a lively, passionate and entrepreneurial spirit. Considerable expansion has taken place in recent years with investment in a new technologically advanced cellar and expansion into the Valpolicella area with the purchase of vineyards in the hilly zone of Montecchia di Crosara. Ca'Rugate has been awarded the prestigious 'Tre Bicchieri' award rating from Gambero Rosso multiple times, making it one of the most awarded producers in the competition and has been hailed by the New York Times as one of the "Top Five producers of High-End Soave".

Vineyard

The best grapes selected from Ca' Rugate's vineyards in the hilly area of Montecchia di Crosara and are harvested at the beginning of October. The vines yield 110 quintals per hectare and are grown in soils made up of limestone and gravel with pebbles, which impart elegance and provide excellent drainage for the vines.

Winemaking

Each variety was vinified separately. The grapes were fermented on their skins for a period of seven to 10 days, releasing the flavours and extracting the colour during the process. The wine was blended and then matured in stainless steel tanks in order to preserve the integrity of the primary aromas and varietal characteristics of the blend.

Tasting Note

Concentrated aromas of red fruits, ripe blackberry and deep cherry flavours, with floral notes and a hint of spice. Supple on the palate with a velvety texture.

Serving Suggestion

Served at 14 to 16°C this is ideal with roast chicken or marinated pork dishes. Great with flavoursome, hard cheeses.

Grape

Corvina 45%, Corvinone 40%, Rondinella 15%