Valpolicella Superiore DOC – 2009
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Introduction
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The Dal Forno family has been making wine since 1983. Located in Val D’Illasi, the estate consists of 65 acres of vines planted to traditional indigenous varieties of Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, Oseleta and Croatina. The estate vineyards and farm are located where the slopes begin to rise toward the mountains and sit 1,000 feet above sea level. The loose, alluvial soils, meticulous pruning and scrupulous viticultural techniques ensure remarkable-quality grapes. The Dal Fornos use traditional methods to grow the finest fruit, and then employ modern techniques to produce the best wines — classic in expression and modern in purity.
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Vineyard Profile
- Appellation: Valpolicella Superiore DOC
- Soil: 70% gravel, 15% silt and 15% clay
- Elevation: 50-250 meters (251-820 feet)
- Exposure: South facing
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Vinification
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The finest bunches of grapes are selected, after which a meticulous manual control is carried out to eliminate all grapes that do not meet the standards required. The selected grapes are then placed in plastic plateaux and are then left to rest for 45 days in large open rooms, where an innovative ventilation system helps maintain an elevated and thorough air flow.
- Fermentation: Fermentation takes place in steel tanks at a controlled temperature of around 28°. The tanks are equipped with a sophisticated computerized system which allows for automated punching for a period of around 15 days, including the final maceration which takes two days.
- Aging: After the racking process, the Valpolicella rests for a few days in stainless steel tanks which, thanks to their particular shape, allows for easy decantation and, subsequently, is placed in new barriques to mature for 36 long months.
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Technical Information
- Varietal Composition: 70% Corvina and Corvina grossa, 20% Rondinella, 5% Croatina, 5% Oseleta
- Alcohol: 14.5%
- RS: 0.7 g/L
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Tasting Notes
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Valpolicella offers hints of blueberry, blackberry, cherry and chocolate which emerge gradually as the wine breathes. The potent tannins, which give structure to this product, are in perfect symbiosis with the velvety aromas of sweet spices and jam which envelop the palate and excite the senses.
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Images
Reviews
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Valpolicella Superiore DOC – 2009 – 94+ points – The Wine Advocate
“… a masterful achievement. This wine shows so beautifully ... The fruit is expressive and articulate with deep layers of blackberry preserves, dried cherry, dark chocolate, espresso bean, mesquite smoke and soy sauce. The mouthfeel is super rich...”
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Valpolicella Superiore DOC – 2009 – 92 points – Wine Spectator
“Black cherries, plums, graphite, tapenade, melted road tar and game hits the palate as Romano Dal Forno's 2009 Valpolicella Superiore shows off its personality … Inky and intense, with considerable tannic backbone...”
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Valpolicella Superiore DOC – 2009 – 91 points – Wine Spectator
“A dense, savory red, with rich, smoky minerality underscoring the flavors of cherry compote, graphite, herbed black olive and star anise. The supple tannins form a firm, well-knit frame. Spicy and chewy on the lasting finish.”