{"product_id":"montalbano-valpolicella-ripasso-2018","title":"Mont'Albano Valpolicella Ripasso 2018","description":"\u003cp\u003eMont'Albano Valpolicella Ripasso 2018 is a richly layered red from Veneto, showcasing the classic Italian ‘Ripasso’ style that bridges everyday drinkability with Amarone-like depth. Produced by the historic Casa Sartori 1898, this wine offers a compelling mix of ripe fruit, spice, and velvety texture at remarkable value. Drawing on generations of know‑how, it captures the soul of Valpolicella in a generous, food‑friendly expression.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Mont'Albano Valpolicella Ripasso 2018 shows a deep ruby red hue with garnet flashes toward the rim, signaling both concentration and a touch of evolution. The nose opens with ripe cherries and blackberries, followed by dried plum, violet, and hints of baking spice, cocoa, and a subtle balsamic note that is typical of the Ripasso method.\n\nOn the palate, this is medium to full-bodied, with supple tannins and a smooth, rounded mouthfeel. Juicy red cherry and dark berry fruit are layered with notes of dried fruits, licorice, sweet spice, and a gentle savory edge. The Ripasso re-fermentation on partially dried grape skins adds extra richness, depth, and a lingering, slightly warming finish. While drinking beautifully now, it has the structure to evolve gracefully for another 4–6 years from the vintage under proper cellaring.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGrown in the rolling hills of Veneto’s Valpolicella zone, the grapes for Mont'Albano Valpolicella Ripasso 2018 benefit from well‑drained, limestone- and clay-rich soils and a climate moderated by nearby Lake Garda. The vineyards are typically planted with traditional local varieties such as Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara, hand- or selectively harvested to ensure ripe, healthy fruit. The base Valpolicella is first vinified in stainless steel, then undergoes the classic Ripasso technique: it is re‑passed over the dried grape skins used for Amarone, triggering a second fermentation that boosts alcohol, body, and complexity. The wine is subsequently matured, often in large oak casks or a mix of oak and tank, to integrate flavors and soften the tannins before bottling.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMont'Albano Valpolicella Ripasso 2018 is a versatile partner for rich, savory dishes: think slow-cooked ragù over fresh pasta, roast lamb, grilled sausages, baked lasagna, or mushroom risotto. It also works beautifully with aged hard cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano or Grana Padano. Serve at 16–18°C to highlight both its fruit and spice profile. A brief decant of 30–45 minutes helps the aromas open up fully, especially if the bottle has been stored cool.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCasa Sartori 1898 is a historic Veneto producer with roots dating back to the late 19th century, when the Sartori family began crafting wines for local taverns and restaurants. Over the decades, the estate has grown into a respected name for classic Veronese wines, including Valpolicella, Amarone, and Ripasso, helping to carry the region’s reputation onto the international stage. Balancing tradition with a modern, quality‑driven approach, Casa Sartori 1898 is known for reliable, characterful wines that reflect their origins while remaining approachable and food-friendly.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Casa Sartori 1898","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255206400337,"sku":"XW-29218","price":18.5,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/mont-albano-valpolicella-ripasso-2018_29218_1.jpg?v=1783457345","url":"https:\/\/bottlehero.com\/products\/montalbano-valpolicella-ripasso-2018","provider":"Bottle Hero","version":"1.0","type":"link"}