Story: Corvina | Grape variety
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A treasure of the Veneto: the Corvina grape variety
Corvina is a traditional, indigenous red wine variety that is native exclusively to the Veneto region in northern Italy. Particularly around Verona - between Lake Garda and the foothills of the Alps - the grape variety has established itself as a fixture in regional viticulture over the centuries. Although it is less well-known outside Italy than some of its international relatives, Corvina has an impressive cultural and oenological significance. Its central role in such important wines as Valpolicella, Ripasso and above all Amarone della Valpolicella gives it the status of a style-defining element of the Italian wine landscape. With its expressiveness, versatility and deep roots in the Veneto terroir, it is an authentic ambassador of its origins.

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Growing area and terroir influence
The vineyards where Corvina thrives are predominantly located on calcareous soils on slopes around the city of Verona. The climate there is temperate and benefits from the temperature-regulating influences of Lake Garda. These geographical conditions ensure a long growing season, which allows the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly. The result is a grape with a strong acid structure, good color development and fine aromas of cherries, red berries and spices. Corvina displays elegant freshness and finesse, particularly at higher altitudes, while at lower altitudes it tends to produce full-bodied, warmer wines. The terroir thus gives Corvina a wide range of expressive possibilities.

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Vinification, ageing and style
Corvina proves to be extremely versatile in winemaking. It is the leading variety in cuvées such as Bardolino and Valpolicella, where it is often complemented by Rondinella and Molinara. The combination produces balanced, fruity wines that are characterized by a light to medium structure and a charming, uncomplicated drinking flow. Corvina shows its full potential in Amarone in particular. Here, the grapes are first dried for several weeks, which leads to a concentration of sugar, extract and aromas. Ageing often takes place in wooden barrels, which gives the wine additional depth and maturity. The Ripasso method, in which young Valpolicella is post-fermented on the marc of the Amarone, also produces intense, powerful wines with a rich texture - always carried by the Corvina.

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Character, ageing potential and significance
Typical of Corvina wines is their fresh acidity, which ensures longevity. Even with a moderate tannin content, many Corvina wines have a remarkable structure and develop a refined aroma over time, ranging from cherry, plum and violet to dried fruit, dark chocolate and spices - depending on ageing and maturation. Amarone in particular, which is often made from at least 45 to 70% Corvina, is considered one of the longest-lived wines in Italy. The grape variety therefore not only shows youthful fruitiness, but also great ageing potential. Its ability to reflect the subtleties of the terroir and assert itself in different wine styles makes it an indispensable factor in northern Italian viticulture. In a world that is increasingly focusing on authenticity and origin, Corvina is rightly gaining international attention once again. - Gerardo [TS05/25]