Torre di Terzolan is a small, family-run estate in the hills of Val Squaranto, in the eastern part of Valpolicella, just outside Verona. Owned by Roberta Previdi, the estate has around 2.5 hectares of organically farmed vineyards, situated at approximately 350 metres above sea level. The cooler conditions and limestone-rich soils help retain freshness and give the wines a distinctive sense of place.
Made from Corvina, Corvinone and Rondinella, this is a more substantial and complex expression of Valpolicella Superiore. The grapes undergo a short period of natural drying before fermentation, concentrating the fruit without taking the wine into Amarone territory. Maturation in French oak barriques and amphorae adds complexity while allowing the character of the grapes to remain at the forefront. A beautifully balanced red, combining ripe cherry fruit, spice and freshness.
Method
The grapes are hand-harvested towards the end of September and placed in shallow trays (plateaux), where they are left to dry naturally under ventilated conditions for several days. This gentle appassimento concentrates the flavours and sugars in the berries.
Fermentation and maceration take place at low temperatures, with daily pumping over and délestage (rack and return) to encourage gentle extraction of colour and tannins. Malolactic fermentation follows in small stainless-steel tanks. The wine is then matured for approximately 15 months in French oak barriques and amphorae, followed by a further 24 months in bottle before release.
Tasting note
Bright ruby red with developing garnet edges. The nose is inviting, with ripe Morello cherries, dark berries and plum, accompanied by cinnamon, black pepper and a touch of aromatic herbs. The palate is generous and rounded, with juicy cherry fruit, finely textured, silky tannins and refreshing acidity. There is a lovely savoury quality running through the wine, leading to a long, persistent finish with hints of spice and a gentle mineral edge. A particularly elegant Valpolicella Superiore, with the concentration and warmth of the vintage balanced by freshness.
