Corvina

Veneto's lead grape for Valpolicella and Amarone.

Corvina is the dominant grape in Valpolicella and Amarone della Valpolicella in northeastern Italy. The fresh-fruit version — light Valpolicella — is pale, tart, cherry-driven, and meant for early drinking. Drying the grapes for several months on racks (the appassimento method) concentrates sugar and intensifies flavor, producing the dense, raisined Amarone. Ripasso, the middle category, refermentes Valpolicella on Amarone pomace for added structure. Corvina blends with Rondinella and Corvinone in all three styles.