Tommasi
Rafaèl Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2021
Valpolicella Classico Superiore
Tommasi Rafaèl Valpolicella Classico Superiore comes from the historic Rafaèl vineyard on Monte Masua, the first plot purchased by the Tommasi family. A blend of Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara, the wine ages 15 months in large Slavonian oak casks, enhancing its natural elegance and balance. Aromas of dried spices, leather, and cherry lead to intense, spicy-sweet flavors framed by vibrant acidity. Rafaèl is a classic and expressive Valpolicella, perfect with cured meats, cheeses, or simple pasta dishes, showcasing the Tommasi family’s deep roots in the region.
VINEYARD
This Valpolicella comes from the historical Tommasi family vineyard, Rafaèl. Perfectly situated on one of the region’s most famous hills, Monte Masua, it produces what may be the best grapes for the production of Valpolicella Classico Superiore.
WINEMAKING
Maceration for 12 days, with temperature-controlled fermentation at 25°-30°C. Maturation for 15 months in 65 hL Slavonian oak casks.
VINTAGE
A cold, dry winter gave way to a balanced spring and mild summer in 2021, allowing for slow, even ripening. Well-distributed rainfall kept the vines in good health, and harvest in late September through early October brought in healthy, sugar-rich fruit. The wines show ripe red fruit, cherry, and sweet spice with balsamic hints, supported by soft tannins and a long, harmonious finish.
TASTING NOTE
A bright ruby red in color, its refined and intense nose reveals both floral and fruity tones, with ripe cherries to the fore. It is graceful and silky on the palate, winning you over with its tasty, supple and persistently fresh fruit.
FOOD PAIRING
Pasta dishes with rich sauces, roasts and white meats, or moderately aged cheeses
Color
Red
Blend %
100% Veneto Red Blend
Appellation
Valpolicella Classico Superiore
Alcohol
12.5%
Suggested Retail Price
$23
Reviews
Vinous - February 29, 2024 "Wonderfully fresh, with a perfumed blend of dried roses, violets and chalk dust giving way to wild blueberries. This sweeps across the palate, lifted and refined, with silky textures and juicy red berry fruits that swirl throughout. It tapers off classically dry, with a gentle staining of tannins and a bump of acidity that keeps the taster looking back to the glass for more."
Wine Spectator - October 13, 2023
James Suckling - April 5, 2024
Trade Materials
Videos
Wine Tasting with Filippo Bartolla: Tommasi Rafaèl Valpolicella
July 14, 2021 - Check out what makes the Tommasi Rafaèl Valpolicella Superiore such a clear expression of its local territory. Together with Filippo Bartolotta, you’ll learn why this Valpolicella vintage is so perfect…
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