Dal Forno Valpolicella Superiore 2015

Vapolicella, Veneto, Italy

Deep ruby in colour. The aromas take some time to be coaxed from the glass but eventually emerge as ripe raspberry, red cherry, sage leaf, and charred cedar notes. There’s a strong whack of oak. The residual sugar is fairly low, but the ripeness gives an off-dry note initially, though on the finish its resolutely dry, showing a pleasant bitterness. When it opens up further it shows pleasant medicinal and herbal notes. Very long finish. Drink 2022-2028.

There is no denying it is expensive (£118/$145) but the production process is intense, with intensive selection in the vineyard and during the drying process, 100% new oak (70% American, 30% French), and an extended ageing process in barrel and bottle before it is released. It’s a good introduction to the Dal Forno style.

Rating: 90/100