Monte dall’Ora Valpolicella Classico Saseti 2022

Monte dall'Ora is run by Alessandra and Carlo Venturini in Castelrotto, a hilly zone just outside Verona in the classic heartland of Valpolicella. The estate is farmed biodynamically, the wine is organic and vegan, and the fruit comes from the traditional Veneto blend of Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella and Molinara. This is the fresh, unoaked style of Valpolicella rather than a dried grape Amarone, and at 11.5% alcohol it stays light and drinkable. Fermentation runs spontaneously on native yeasts, which keeps the character close to the grapes and the site, and the limestone rich hillside soils feed the wine its bright acidity and savoury tone. Corvina gives the sour cherry fruit that defines the region, while Rondinella and Molinara add lift and a touch of bitterness on the close. The colour is a bright medium ruby. The nose shows sour cherry, red berries, dried herbs and a hint of rhubarb, with an earthy undertone. The palate is light and fresh, with gentle tannin, a peppery savoury streak and a clean finish. Serve at 14 to 16 degrees, lightly chilled if you prefer. It is a natural match for pizza, tomato pasta and roast pork.