Domini Veneti Valpolicella Ripasso La Casetta 2019

Domini Veneti Valpolicella Ripasso La Casetta 2019 is a rich, characterful red that bridges the gap between classic Valpolicella and the opulence of Amarone. Crafted from traditional Veronese varieties Corvina, Corvinone and Rondinella, it offers depth, warmth and a polished structure that’s ideal for lovers of expressive, food-friendly Italian reds. Made using the historic Ripasso method, it captures the soul of Valpolicella Classica in a bottle that overdelivers for its category.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, La Casetta 2019 shows a deep ruby-red colour with garnet reflections at the rim, hinting at its concentration and evolving complexity. The nose opens with ripe red cherries and blackberries, followed by notes of dried plum, fig, and hints of Amarone-like raisin. Layers of sweet spice (cinnamon, clove), cocoa, a touch of vanilla and a subtle herbal note of dried thyme add nuance and intrigue. On the palate, this Ripasso is medium to full-bodied with a velvety texture and well-integrated tannins. Juicy cherry and dark berry fruit are enriched by flavours of dried fruits, bitter chocolate, licorice and baking spices, supported by fresh, balanced acidity that keeps the wine lively rather than heavy. The finish is long, warming and gently savoury, with lingering notes of cocoa, spice and dried cherry. The 2019 vintage is drinking beautifully now but has the structure and concentration to develop further complexity over 5–8 years from vintage, gaining more tertiary notes of leather, tobacco and balsamic with time in bottle.

Production
La Casetta is sourced from carefully selected vineyards in the heart of Valpolicella Classica in Veneto, where hillside sites, limestone-rich soils and good diurnal temperature swings help produce grapes with both ripeness and freshness. The Corvina, Corvinone and Rondinella are harvested by hand to ensure optimal quality and careful selection of bunches. After an initial fermentation as a classic Valpolicella, the wine undergoes the traditional Ripasso process: it is refermented on the pomace of Amarone and/or Recioto grapes from the same area. This second fermentation adds body, colour, alcohol and complex flavours from the partially dried grape skins. The wine then matures (often in a mix of large Slavonian oak casks and smaller barrels) to soften the tannins and integrate the fruit and spice, before being bottled with a focus on preserving its regional character and layered profile.

Food & Serving
Domini Veneti Valpolicella Ripasso La Casetta 2019 is a versatile partner for robust, flavourful dishes. It pairs beautifully with slow-cooked ragù, lasagne, grilled and roasted red meats, game birds, ossobuco, mushroom risotto and aged cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano or Grana Padano. It also complements charcuterie and hearty vegetable stews with beans or lentils. Serve at 16–18°C to showcase its balance of freshness and depth. Decanting for 30–60 minutes before serving allows the wine to open up fully, softening the tannins and bringing out the layers of dried fruit, spice and cocoa.

Producer
Domìni Veneti is the premium quality project of Cantina Valpolicella Negrar, one of the most historically important cooperative cellars in Valpolicella, founded in 1933. Launched in 1989, Domìni Veneti was created to highlight the finest vineyards and micro-zones of the Valpolicella Classica area in northeastern Italy, an appellation that has carried the name “Valpolicella Classica del vino” since 1968. The name itself recalls the territories that once belonged to the Venetian Republic in the 16th century, underlining a deep historical and cultural connection to the land. Today, Domìni Veneti is recognised as a benchmark producer for Valpolicella, Ripasso and Amarone, known for meticulous vineyard work, careful selection of grapes and a balance of tradition and modern technique that has earned them significant acclaim both in Italy and abroad.