Thursday, October 7, 2010

Zenato Valpolicella Superiore, 2007

The Zenato winery has about 175 acres of vineyard located in Lugana, northwest of Verona, in the Veneto region of Northern Italy. For over 50 years, Zenato has been producing wines that showcase the lovely wines of the region. This pleasant Zalpolicella is made from 85% Corvina, 10% Rondinella, and 5% Sangiovese. This wine is produced in a traditional method by de-stemming and crushing, followed by 6-7 days maceration with the skins. The wine is kept in temperature controlled steel tanks for malolactic fermentation then matured in Slovenian oak barrels for 12 months prior to bottling. The color is a deep, dark red with a crimson hue. The nose offers fragrances red cherry, dried cranberries, sage, leather and some dusty earth. This is a medium bodied wine with flavors of chocolate covered cherries, red raspberry, toasted almonds, coco and violets and baking spice. There is a nice structure with a velvety texture from smooth tannins and a crisp edge from vibrant acidity. The finish is long and flavorful. This Zenato is ready to enjoy now, but can be cellared for a few years. Consider this wine with a Herb Crusted Pork Roast or an Autumn Mushroom Risotto. We purchased this Valpolicella fron Esquin Wines, in Seattle, for about $12.

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