Giuseppe Quintarelli 2018 Valpolicella Classico Superiore 750ml

The Giuseppe Quintarelli 2018 Valpolicella Classico Superiore is a beautifully refined and complex Valpolicella that transcends the norm. It balances elegant tannins, vibrant acidity, and layered fruit with savory spice, herbaceous nuance, and oak-driven depth. Silky and polished yet rooted in rustic tradition, it's both immediately engaging and poised for long-term development. Overview Producer & Region: Crafted by the legendary Giuseppe Quintarelli estate in the hills north of Verona, a benchmark producer in Valpolicella. This is considered the entry point into their revered portfolio.  Blend & Style: Combines traditional Valpolicella varieties—Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, and Molinara, often with small additions of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.  Vinification & Aging: Grapes are partially dried, then aged around six to seven years in large Slavonian oak botti, fostering concentration and nuance.  Tasting Notes Nose: Deep, layered aromas of toasted hazelnuts, dark berries, and earthy spice, with smoky cedar, graphite, and ripe red fruit to draw you in.  Palate: Medium-bodied with a velvety feel. Expect dark cherry, plum, fig, and raisin, framed by wild herbs, forest floor, and fine tannins. A core of acidity keeps the palate alive.  Spice & Texture: Layers of spice—cloves, star anise, cinnamon, nutmeg, juniper—add depth and complexity. The texture is lush yet energetic. Finish: Long and elegantly mineral; herbal and savory echoes linger, offering structure and focus.  Noteworthy Characteristics Described as “the quintessential expression of the Quintarelli style,” this wine is rich, intense, and uncompromisingly focused on quality.  Glimmers of chocolate, mocha, and cranberry weave through the fruit profile.  A Wine Spectator rating of 96/100 (superiore.de report) endorses its depth, and cellaring potential is into the mid-2030s and beyond.  Quick Summary Table Feature Details Region Valpolicella Classico, Veneto (Giuseppe Quintarelli) Vintage 2018 Varietals Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, Molinara (+ Cabernet Franc/Sauvignon) Aging ~7 years in large Slavonian oak Style Elegant, timbered, richly layered Aromas Hazelnut, dark berries, cedar, smoke, graphite Flavors Cherry, plum, fig, herbal, spice, mocha Texture & Finish Medium-bodied, silky, long, mineral-savory finish Cellar Potential High—drink now or over the next 10–15+ years Accolades ~96 points Wine Spectator; landmark Valpolicella In essence, the 2018 Quintarelli Valpolicella Classico Superiore is an exceptional expression of the region: deeply rooted in tradition, hugely expressive, and crafted for both enjoyment now and graceful aging. A splendid wine to explore with fine cuisine or in a thoughtful tasting.