Valpolicella Classico Superiore DOC Rafaèl 2023 Tommasi

What kind of wine it is

Rafaèl by Tommasi is a red wine that embodies the unmistakable style of the Valpolicella Classica. Classified as Valpolicella Classico Superiore, it comes from a careful blend of Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara. This wine stands out for its fruity and smooth profile, the result of a vinification that enhances the natural vocation of the grape varieties. On the palate, it offers a well-balanced harmony between the softness of ripe fruit and a pleasantly fresh and savory finish.

Where it comes from

This red originates in the historic area of Valpolicella Classica, in the Verona region, where the Tommasi family has been cultivating its vineyards for over a century. The soils in this area are particularly prized and host exceptional crus, including La Groletta and Conca d’Oro. Sourcing from these plots gives the wine a strong territorial identity, reflecting the producer’s deep connection to the local winemaking tradition.

How it is produced

Production begins with the harvest of the grapes, followed by fermentation at a controlled temperature. During this phase, the must undergoes a twelve-day maceration on the skins, a crucial step to extract intense color and desired aromatic components. Subsequently, the wine matures for fifteen months in large Slavonian oak barrels. This long period in wood develops the structure and defines a harmonious and balanced sip before bottling.

Tasting notes

In the glass, it shows a bright ruby red color. The nose is fragrant and immediate, characterized by clear notes of cherry and black cherry, intertwined with delicate hints of small forest fruits. On the palate, it reveals itself from the very first sip as smooth and enveloping, supported by a pleasant abundance of ripe fruit. The evolution on the palate is extremely clean and finishes with a fresh, savory finale that invites another taste.

Pairings

Its innate freshness and smooth taste profile make it an ideal companion for flavorful dishes such as pasta with ragù. In harmony with typical Venetian cuisine, it pairs excellently with a plate of bigoli with duck ragù, where the intensity of the fruit balances the succulence of the dish. It is also very suitable with main courses of white meats, such as chicken or rabbit, as its elegant aromatic texture supports the meat without ever overpowering its flavor.

When to serve it

This Valpolicella Classico Superiore is perfect for enhancing everyday meals or for enjoyable social gatherings. Thanks to its careful maturation in wood, it offers an already composed and harmonious aromatic profile, ready to be enjoyed. To make the most of its fruity nuances, it is advisable to open the bottle a short time before serving, thus allowing for natural aeration. It’s a highly drinkable wine, able to elegantly combine immediacy and depth of flavor.