Valpolicella.it - Territorio

	In collaboration with Consorzio Tutela Vini della Valpolicella

Grape varieties

The originality of wines from the Valpolicella is based on the unique qualities of the rich and diverse territory. The noble characteristics of various red grapes used, with particular reference to the native varieties that are present in the various wineries, have been subject to regulation since 1968.
Corvina Veronese: This variety was described in the Valpolicella at the beginning of the 1800s and is quite vigorous, with variable and nonetheless of medium yields. It is characterized by poor fertility in the lower stems and has medium sized, pyramid shaped bunches which are winged and compact. This is a somewhat rustic variety and is particularly adapted for light and exposed soils, providing wines that have a ruby red color, more or less intense, with a slightly acidic taste, somewhat tannic, medium bodied and somewhat lasting. The variety is also well adapted for withering and in particular the subtype "gentile" has grapes that are somewhat smaller than normal.
Corvinone: This grapevine was identified as "Corvina veronese grossa" and only recently has this variety been given its own identity. This vine is generous, with quite large bunches and grapes. It is rustic and has an optimal productive capacity, especially if it is cultivated in the hills, in well exposed, meager soils. The basal stems are of medium fertility. The variety gives rise to wines that have a ruby red color, with intense perfumes, fruity, sometimes spicy, full bodied, and a high proportion of tannins. It is well adapted for withering, in order to produce Amarone and Recioto Valpolicella wines.
Rondinella: The variety is very rustic, generous and adapted for soils having a high content of clay and which are not well exposed. The basal buds are of medium fertility. The bunches are of medium dimension and have a cylindrical shape. It is perfectly adapted for withering, especially from vines that have been grown in the hills in meager soil. The wines that come from this variety have an intense ruby red color, with a gentle aroma. They are fruity and have a flavor which is not tannic, but having a good structure.
Other local varieties: Other diffuse, local varieties include used to make wines in the Valpolicella include Molinara, Dindarella, Oseleta, Rossignola, Negrara, Forsellina. In the case of production for DOC wines, their presence is limited to 15%.

- Molinara (Rossara, Rossanella, Brepon molinaro): Until a few years ago, it was foreseen that this variety was among those which were obligatory in the regulations governing Valpolicella wines; at present, given its scarce content in colored substances, the production of this variety is rather low. Vinification with these grapes produce simple, rather pale wines, but which are savory and highly drinkable.
- Dindarella (Pelara, Quaiara): In the past, whether or not Dindarella and Pelara were two distinct grapevines was a subject of great discussion. Today, it has been ascertained that these vines are actually the same variety. It has medium maturation times and has large pyramid shapes bunches that are winged. It produces wines that are somewhat structured, having an intense ruby red color, with a typical, pronounced aroma. During the 1980s it was quite diffuse, especially for commercial reasons linked to the strong success of white wines at the expense of red wines.
- Oseleta: This variety has small bunches and small grapes. The ratio of skin to pulp is very high and the yields are quite low. It produces wines that are highly colored, with a good acidity. It is recommended for vinification together with other traditional varieties of the Valpolicella given its ability to ensure intense color.
- Rossignola: This variety was diffuse in the past in the areas around Verona. Today, it has practically been substituted by other more prestigious varieties.
- Negrara (Negrara trentina, Terodola): This variety has long, pyramid shaped bunches which are winged and compact with dark blue grapes that are