2012 Palazzo della Torre, Veronese, Allegrini, Veneto, Italy

Corvina is widely grown on the Veneto shore of Lake Garda and the hills of Valpolicella to the north and north-east of Verona. Sometimes known as Corvina Veronese, it is blended with Rondinella and Molinara to produce Valpolicella and Bardolino. It can be a tricky grape to cultivate, as it ripens late and is prone to rot if affected by rains at harvest time. It is a high-yielding grape and quality is very dependent on keeping yields low. Corvina-based red wines can range in style from a light, cherryish red to the rich, port-like Recioto and Amarone Valpolicellas. Most Valpolicella from the plains is pale and insipid, and bears little comparison with Valpolicella Classico from the hills. Some producers such as Allegrini are now producing very high quality 100% Corvina wines.

The Allegrini family has been making wine in Valpolicella for several generations, though it was Giovanni Allegrini who really put this estate on the map through his innovative methods both in the vineyards and in the cantina. Today it is run by Giovanni`s children: Franco, who manages the vines, and Marilisa for the marketing of the wines. There are 45 hectares of vines which are situated in the townships of Fumane, Sant`Ambrogio and Marano. Allegrini produces an outstanding range of wines that includes Valpolicella Classicos, single vineyard Valpolicellas, Amarones and Reciotos. They are all made in a modern, intensely fruit-driven style, and the Amarone, in particular, is outstanding.