Wines Recioto della Valpolicella. Tommasi - Fiorato - 2008

Viniou Reviews

Tommasi's Recioto della Valpolicella Fiorato 2008 is an exceptional sweet red wine hailing from one of the most celebrated appellations in the Veneto region of Italy. Recioto della Valpolicella is a historic wine, produced essentially from indigenous grape varieties such as Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara, although Fiorato may feature nuanced blending depending on the vintage. The hallmark of this wine lies in its traditional appassimento process: after harvest, the grapes are dried for several months in well-ventilated conditions, concentrating their sugars and aromatics before being gently pressed and slowly vinified. The end result in this 2008 vintage is a luscious, deep ruby moelleux with layers of ripe black cherry, dried plum, fig, chocolate, and a gentle hint of spice, all carried by velvety tannins and a lingering, harmonious finish.

Valpolicella, nestled in the Veneto region between Verona and Lake Garda, benefits from a varied landscape of rolling hills and cool breezes descending from the Lessini Mountains. The soils here are predominantly limestone and clay, imparting both freshness and depth to the wines. Historically, Veneto has been at the heart of Italian viticulture since Roman times, and Valpolicella’s sweet wines like Recioto are some of the oldest styles produced, often reserved for celebrations and special occasions.

The silky sweetness and robust structure of Tommasi's Recioto Fiorato 2008 make it a perfect companion for intense, flavourful desserts such as dark chocolate torte, flourless chocolate cake, or traditional Italian sbrisolona almond crumb cake. It pairs beautifully with blue cheeses like Gorgonzola or a mature Stilton, creating a harmonious contrast between sweetness and umami. For a truly regional experience, serve it alongside Venetian torta di noci or panpepato.

For optimal enjoyment, decant gently and serve at 12-14°C. This brings out its aromatic complexity while maintaining the freshness essential to balance its natural sweetness. The wine is best served in a large glass to allow its bouquet to fully develop.