Just One of Many Searches

I have this thing about finding a ripasso - one that's ripe with flavour and won't break the bank. It's a rare occasion that we might share a bottle of amarone; so, the thought of a wine that at least incorporates some aspect of the ever-romantic amarone intrigues me. When it comes down to it though, the process of re-passing a young valpolicella wine through the drained, but unpressed skins and lees of the amarone may add body and colour but it might be wishful thinking on my part to hope that the wine would see much of an increased fruit presence on the palate.

It would be interesting to try a tasting of one winery's valpolicella, ripasso and amarone side by side to check out the differences.

#13. 2003 Pasqua Sagramoso Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore (DOC - Italy)

Our lovely model presenting tonight's wine, Melissa, was also sous-chef in the kitchen. Since the menu was pasta with "secret ingredient sauce" (where all three of us got to pick a favourite ingredient for the sauce), it made sense to go Italian. And, I think this one paid off. Nose, fruit and body - it worked. I wouldn't have any hesitation giving it another sip at the table.

I would be remiss if I didn't give word on Melissa's couture - the skeletor-like hoody. It's her favourite and, believe it or not, when we were standing in the line for Monsters vs. Aliens later in the evening, the young boy directly behind us was wearing the same coat. Who knew that you can dress for Halloween every day of the year now. I need to get out more!