At a glance

Producer

Masi Agricola

Region

Veneto, Italy

Grape variety

Predominantly Corvina, with Rondinella and Molinara (traditional Veronese blend; appassimento-style ripasso process)

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Off-Dry

Typical price

$18-24 USD (750ml, retail, as of early 2024)

Tasting profile

Bright cherry, ripe plum, blackberries, hints of baking spice, vanilla, mild leather, and dried herbs. Medium-bodied, round texture, fresh finish.

Evolution: With time, fresh fruit notes will integrate with tertiary hints of dried fig, tobacco, earthy undertones, and more pronounced spice. Tannins mellow, acidity knits flavors together.

At peak: Most harmonious balance of ripe fruit and savory complexity, velvety mouthfeel, and layered aromatic bouquet; secondary notes (dried fruit, earthiness, spices) lift the wine.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, vibrant; maintains freshness and supports aging

Tannins

Medium, supple, moderately resolved but will soften further with 2-4 years aging

Alcohol

Moderate (13–13.5%), well-integrated, in balance with fruit and body

Aging potential

5–7 years from vintage (2025–2027 preferred for balance of freshness and complexity)

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2028

Optimal window

2024 to 2029

Current status

Enjoyable now, will improve with short-term aging

Current condition

Youthful, fresh fruit-forward, integrated but primary; mild tannins and lively acidity

2026–2028 represents the intersection between the youthful vibrancy of the fruit and the emergence of complex secondary characteristics from the ripasso technique. By this time, structure is mellowed, flavors are integrated, and the wine reaches its expressive ideal. After 2028, the wine will show more tertiary notes, but primary fruit will fade and vibrancy may decline.

Food pairing

Classic pairings: braised beef, osso buco, roast pork, lamb shank, mushroom risotto, pasta with rich ragù, aged Grana Padano or Parmigiano. As the wine evolves, it marries best with heartier, earthier dishes like game or aged cheeses, while early drinking favors fresher, tomato-based Italian fare.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has medium tannins that are moderately resolved but will benefit from aeration to enhance its flavors and aromas.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Integrated pest management, reduction of chemical inputs, energy-efficient production, biodiversity initiatives

Masi Agricola is known for environmentally conscious viticulture and certified sustainability (not fully organic). Its practices help reduce environmental impact compared to conventional wineries in the region.