At a glance

Producer

Giuseppe Quintarelli

Region

Veneto, Italy

Grape variety

Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, Molinara

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$90-$130

Tasting profile

Notes of dried cherries, herbs, leather, and spices with a dense texture.

Evolution: Developing complex tertiary aromas of tobacco, earth, and forest floor over next 5-10 years.

At peak: Elegant integration of fruit and tertiary notes, silky tannins, and long finish.

Structure

Acidity

High but balanced

Tannins

Firm and well-structured

Alcohol

Around 14-14.5%

Aging potential

20+ years

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2043

Optimal window

2024 to 2046

Current status

Approaching early drinking window with significant aging potential

Current condition

Youthful with firm tannins and vibrant acidity; will benefit from cellaring

Giuseppe Quintarelli's Valpolicella Classico Superiore is a top-tier vintage with exceptional balance, structured tannins, and balanced acidity enabling long-term aging. The 2018 vintage is a strong vintage in Veneto, adding to its longevity and complexity potential.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with roasted red meats, game, aged cheeses, and hearty Italian dishes such as wild mushroom risotto or braised meat.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften tannins and allow complex aromas to open up.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Focus on minimal intervention, sustainable viticulture practices, limited chemical treatments, usage of traditional natural fermentation approaches.

Giuseppe Quintarelli practices traditional, low-intervention winemaking with attention to sustainability by minimizing chemical inputs and promoting soil health. While no formal certifications are documented, the estate's legacy and methods align with sustainable viticulture principles despite a moderate carbon footprint due to international transport.