Masi, Rosso Del Veronese Indicazione Geografica Tipica, Campofiorin, Ripasso 2005 Previous vintages, while not stunning or concentrated, have highlighted the sense that ripasso adds to the barer bones of straight Valpolicella, albeit at a budget price. The ’05 is a little stinky at first with notes of tar and plums. There’s plenty of tart cherry flavor in the mouth and the acidity carries the hint of raisins a long way. Mostly Corvina, this Ripasso by Masi is trademarked as Campofiorin. P&B in Ambrogio di Valpolicella using appassimento (semi-drying) and controlled ‘double fermentation’ 13% $12.99 at Traverso’s in Sept. ’08 and up to $15.99 in Sept. ’09 Masi
Corteforte, Amarone della Valpolicella DOC, Classico 2000 The smell of raisins, prunes and molasses are all there in a silky, sweet-appearing that includes some earthy notes reminiscent of cheese and nuts. The blend is 65% Corvina and Corvinone, 25% Molinara and 10% other varieties. Grown & Bottled by Carlo Maria Cerutti in Fumane di alpolicella 15% $54 at Traverso’s Corteforte
Good call on the 2005. The 2004 is a better wine. Campofiorin is an enigma. The tradition, the market presence and the hype seem to fall short of the mark. It’s a fair value, but this wine is closer to the Valpolicella of the past than the Valpolicella Ripassos of the present. Try the Montresor Capitel della Crosara Valpolicella Classico 2005. $11.99 @ the Barn.
Well said AJ. Thanks for the tip and for entering the discussion. Ray