Have you ever wondered why Valpolicella Ripasso is often called a Baby Amarone? The answer lies in understanding the fascinating relationship between Amarone vs Ripasso vs Valpolicella — three distinct wine styles that showcase the incredible versatility of Veneto’s winemaking traditions. And let’s be honest, when wines taste this good, it’s easy not to question why for too long.
All three wines come from the same area near Verona and use the same grape varieties. Yet they are made in completely different ways, producing very different styles and price points.
What Makes Valpolicella Wines Special?
Valpolicella is both a place near Verona and a protected wine designation with strict production rules. To earn the Valpolicella name, winemakers must use only three local grape varieties:
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Corvina – the premium grape that provides structure and perfume
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Molinara – adds freshness and lift
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Rondinella – brings colour and soft fruit
This shared foundation forms the heart of the Amarone vs Ripasso vs Valpolicella story.
Amarone: The King of the Amarone vs Ripasso vs Valpolicella Trio
At the top of the Valpolicella family sits Amarone, a wine made using one of the world’s most distinctive techniques — the appassimento method. Winemakers select the best grapes from the harvest and dry them slowly over winter, concentrating sugars and flavour.
The result is a luxurious, full-bodied red bursting with dried fruit, spice and velvety richness. Amarone typically reaches around 15% alcohol and feels warming, generous and indulgent. Many enjoy it during winter or at Christmas as an alternative to port, but it’s equally stunning beside a fire with cheese or chocolate.
Ripasso: The Perfect Middle Ground between Amarone and Valpolicella
Ripasso is Amarone’s cheeky younger sibling. It bridges the gap between light Valpolicella and full-bodied Amarone. After Amarone is made, winemakers take the leftover grape skins and “repass” them onto a batch of fresh Valpolicella. This second fermentation adds depth, texture and extra alcohol, giving Ripasso its signature richness.
Expect a smooth, warming wine with dark cherry, plum and gentle spice. Ripasso is brilliant with roast duck, mushroom risotto or any slow-cooked dish with earthy flavours. It offers the best of both worlds — more structure than Valpolicella, yet softer and less intense than Amarone.
Valpolicella: The Fresh Foundation
Valpolicella is the original and lightest of the trio. It focuses on fruit purity and freshness, without any drying or double fermentation. Think crunchy red cherries, a hint of almond and soft tannins that make it effortlessly drinkable.
It’s perfect for weeknight dinners — serve it slightly chilled with pizza, pasta or antipasti. Valpolicella also acts as the gateway into Veneto’s reds, preparing your palate for the deeper, richer layers of Ripasso and Amarone.
Your Amarone vs Ripasso vs Valpolicella Journey
Together, these three wines tell the story of one region and one set of grapes expressed in three distinct ways. Valpolicella brings freshness, Ripasso adds depth, and Amarone delivers luxury and power.
Whether you’re opening a bottle for a casual meal or saving one for a special occasion, there’s a style of Valpolicella for every table.
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