Monteforte Valpolicella Ripasso Clivus 2021

Monteforte Valpolicella Ripasso Clivus 2021 is a classic expression of the Ripasso style from the hills of Veneto, combining the freshness of Valpolicella with the depth and warmth of Amarone. Made predominantly from Corvina, this red delivers generous flavour, supple texture and a comforting richness that feels tailor-made for hearty meals and cool evenings. It offers serious character and complexity at a remarkably accessible price point, making it an ideal introduction to the Ripasso category.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, the Clivus Ripasso shows a deep ruby red colour with garnet highlights at the rim, signalling both youth and a touch of evolution. The nose is inviting and layered, with ripe red cherries, blackberries and plum compote woven together with notes of dried herbs, tobacco, sweet spice, cocoa and a gentle hint of dried fruit from the Ripasso process. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied with a smooth, velvety texture. Juicy cherry and dark berry flavours are supported by nuances of fig, raisin, mocha, clove and a subtle savoury note reminiscent of dried thyme and leather. The tannins are fine and well-integrated, giving structure without harshness, while a lively, classic Valpolicella acidity keeps everything fresh and food-friendly. The finish is long and warming, with lingering notes of spice and dark fruit. Enjoyable now, this 2021 has the balance to evolve gracefully over the next 5–7 years, gaining even more softness and complexity with a little bottle age.

Production
Cantina Monteforte sources the Corvina grapes for this Ripasso from hillside vineyards in the Veneto, where calcareous and volcanic soils, good drainage and wide diurnal temperature swings help preserve aromatics and freshness. Grapes are harvested when fully ripe, then gently crushed and vinified as a classic Valpolicella, fermented in temperature-controlled tanks to capture bright fruit character. The distinctive Ripasso technique follows: the young Valpolicella is refermented on the still-warm skins of Amarone (or Recioto) grapes, gaining extra colour, flavour concentration and tannic grip. After this second fermentation, the wine is matured—often in a mix of stainless steel and large or used oak casks—to harmonise fruit, structure and spice before bottling under the Clivus label.

Food & Serving
Monteforte Valpolicella Ripasso Clivus 2021 is a natural partner for rich, comforting dishes: think slow-braised beef, osso buco, lamb shanks, game stews, mushroom risotto or baked pasta with ragù and aged cheeses. It also works beautifully with charcuterie, hard cheeses such as Grana Padano or Parmigiano-Reggiano, and wood-fired pizzas with cured meats. Serve at 16–18°C to show its full aromatic range. Decanting for 30–45 minutes helps the wine open up, softening the tannins and allowing the darker fruit and spicy notes to emerge more clearly.

Producer
Cantina Monteforte is a well-established cooperative winery based in the Veneto, known primarily for harnessing the strengths of its many small growers to produce wines that over-deliver in quality and typicity. With roots going back to the mid-20th century, the cantina has grown alongside the region’s reputation, contributing significantly to the recognition of Veneto as one of Italy’s most important wine areas. The Clivus range, which includes this Valpolicella Ripasso, is focused on expressing local varieties and traditional techniques such as the Ripasso and appassimento methods. Through careful vineyard management, modern winemaking equipment and a strong link to regional traditions, Cantina Monteforte has earned a solid reputation for producing reliable, characterful wines that showcase the heart of Veneto at approachable prices.