Società Agricola Il Sasso is a groundbreaking organic estate in Valpolicella working with 10 hectares of Corvina, Corvinone and Rondinella growing on terraced, south-facing hills in Storica, just outside Verona.
The vines here grow at around 300m altitude in rugged, rock-strewn terrain, with the roots forced to penetrate through here and the ‘calcarenite gialla’ - a type of soft yellow limestone - in search of sustenance. All grapes are hand-harvested and fermented with native yeasts in a mix of concrete and ceramic barrels, with the typical wood avoided in order to emphasise the character and freshness of the grapes.
We're thrilled to have imported Stefano's wines into the UK for several years now, and have just received a fresh delivery of all three wines. In the trade? We'd love to hear from you on info@gnarlyvines.co.uk for all wholesale enquiries.
Valpolicella Classico (£21.50)
This is the Valpolicella Classico made from partially de-stemmed grapes, lightly crushed and using only the free-run juice before pressing. Wonderfully fresh and lifted with crunchy cranberry, red cherry, wild herb and pepper aromas.
Valpolicella Classico Superiore (£28.50)
The Valpolicella Classico Superiore is made from partially de-stemmed grapes as well as whole bunches macerated on skins for around a month before pressing off to age for 12 months. Bright, spicy red and dried cherry aromas with floral tones and fine, lightly drying tannins. A lovely Valpolicella.
Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico (£55)
This is Il Sasso's Amarone, made with grapes that are dried for up to 4 months to concentrate the sugars, followed by 2 months of maceration before ageing for three years in special ceramic barriques. It's rich, fruity and spicy with intense notes of dried cherry, apricots and plum.