{"product_id":"tommaso-bussola-valpolicella-classico-superiore-tb-2018","title":"Tommaso Bussola Valpolicella Classico Superiore TB 2018","description":"\u003cp\u003eTommaso Bussola Valpolicella Classico Superiore TB 2018 is a richly styled, characterful red from one of Valpolicella’s most admired artisans. This is no simple everyday red: the ‘TB’ label represents Bussola’s top selection, crafted with extra concentration, depth and finesse. Anchored in the historic hills of Valpolicella Classica, it bridges traditional techniques with an almost modern opulence, offering a wine that feels both authentic and indulgent.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, the 2018 TB Valpolicella Classico Superiore shows a deep, vibrant ruby color with garnet highlights at the rim, hinting at both ripeness and evolving complexity. The nose is generous and seductive, with layers of ripe red cherry, black cherry and plum, wrapped in notes of dried roses, violets, sweet tobacco and cocoa. Subtle hints of dried herbs, licorice, baking spice and a touch of balsamic lift add aromatic detail and depth.\n\nOn the palate, this wine is fuller and more structured than many Valpolicellas, with a velvety texture and a core of ripe, sweet‑toned fruit balanced by fresh acidity. Flavors of cherry compote, dark berries and damson are intertwined with dark chocolate, espresso, spice box and a faint savory note reminiscent of cured meat and dried thyme. The tannins are fine yet firm enough to give grip and aging potential, leading to a long, warming finish with lingering notes of cherry, spice and cocoa. While already very enjoyable now, the 2018 has the structure to develop further complexity over the next 6–8 years if well cellared.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHailing from the historic hills of Valpolicella Classica in Veneto, this wine is sourced from well‑exposed vineyards rooted in a mix of limestone and clay, which naturally limit yields and enhance concentration and aromatic lift. The blend follows the traditional Valpolicella grapes—primarily Corvina and Corvinone with Rondinella and local varieties—often including a portion of partially dried grapes in Bussola’s signature style to deepen body and complexity. Harvest is typically done by hand, allowing strict bunch selection in the vineyard. In the cellar, gentle crushing and a relatively long maceration extract color, aroma and fine tannin without harshness. Fermentation takes place in temperature‑controlled vessels, followed by maturation in a combination of barrels (often including barriques and larger oak casks), where the wine gains polish, spice and textural richness before bottling.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Valpolicella Classico Superiore TB is a natural match for richly flavored dishes such as braised beef or veal, slow‑cooked lamb, osso buco, game birds, and hearty pastas with ragù. It also pairs beautifully with aged hard cheeses, mushroom risottos and dishes featuring truffles or roasted root vegetables. Serve at 16–18°C (about 60–64°F) to highlight its aromatic complexity and layered fruit. Decanting for 30–60 minutes before serving is recommended, especially in its youth, to allow the wine to open fully and soften the tannins.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTommaso Bussola is a revered name in Valpolicella, known for elevating the region’s wines through meticulous work in both vineyard and cellar. Starting out as a stone mason before taking over his uncle’s estate, Bussola gradually built a reputation as a visionary producer, particularly for his powerful, characterful Valpolicella and Amarone. Working in the heart of the Valpolicella Classica zone, he championed low yields, attentive vine care and selective harvesting long before such practices were widespread in the region. Over the years, his ‘TB’ label wines have become benchmarks for a richer, more ambitious style of Valpolicella, earning high praise from international critics and helping to cement Veneto’s status as one of Italy’s most dynamic red‑wine regions.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tommaso Bussola","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255237497169,"sku":"XW-53948","price":49.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/tommaso-bussola-valpolicella-classico-superiore-tb-2018_53948_1_a3fa2168-6c92-44d3-821b-854a7225cbfa.webp?v=1783457637","url":"https:\/\/bottlehero.com\/products\/tommaso-bussola-valpolicella-classico-superiore-tb-2018","provider":"Bottle Hero","version":"1.0","type":"link"}