The Rosso Ca' del Merlo is among the most characterful wines from Giuseppe Quintarelli, uniquely combining the elegance of a great Valpolicella with the depth and complexity of the estate's legendary Amarone wines. The grapes originate from a single site surrounding the vineyard of the same name, Ca' del Merlo, and reflect the uncompromising signature of the Quintarelli family. Although the wine is classified as a Veneto IGT, it ranks among the most fascinating red wines in Northern Italy in terms of quality and has long enjoyed cult status among enthusiasts.
The cuvée consists predominantly of the traditional Valpolicella grape varieties Corvina, Corvinone, and Rondinella, supplemented by small portions of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Nebbiolo, Croatina, and Sangiovese. What is special, however, is the vinification: about half of the grapes are processed immediately after harvest, while the other half are dried for about two months using the appassimento method. After spontaneous fermentation, both batches are combined and subsequently fermented on the skins of the Amarone following the traditional ripasso method. This gives the wine additional depth, structure, and aromatic complexity without losing the freshness and drinkability of a classic Valpolicella. The Rosso Ca' del Merlo then matures for about seven years in large Slavonian oak barrels before it is released for sale.
In the glass, the Rosso Ca' del Merlo presents itself as powerful yet remarkably precise. Ripe black cherries, sour cherries, plums, licorice, tobacco, dried herbs, balsamic notes, and fine spices combine with mineral nuances and an extraordinary freshness. Silky tannins, lively acidity, and a long, elegant finish give the wine a balance that is typical of Giuseppe Quintarelli. Despite its concentration, it never feels heavy; instead, it possesses an impressive lightness and an aging potential of several decades.
The Giuseppe Quintarelli Rosso Ca' del Merlo is far more than a ripasso or a classic Veneto red wine. It unites the traditional techniques of appassimento and ripasso with the unmistakable precision of the Quintarelli estate and is considered one of the most distinctive wines of the Veneto. For lovers of authentic Italian top-tier wines, it is an impressive expression of the Valpolicella terroir and a prime example of how uncompromising craftsmanship produces exceptional wines.
