Today we are in the heart of Valpolicella, and more precisely in the beautiful hills of Negrar. It is here that the Azienda Agricola Quintarelli gives birth to Primofiore, a red wine that, like a first flower blooming in spring, heralds the arrival of a vintage full of promise. It is certainly not a ‘typical’ wine for the area, being the fruit of a successful blend of indigenous grapes, Corvina and Corvinone, with international varieties, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Each variety represents about a quarter of the total. The grapes come from vineyards located on limestone and basaltic soils in the Valpolicella region. Here, a mild and breezy microclimate makes the region one of the best suited in Italy, capable of producing grapes of the highest quality. After rigorous selection of the grapes, fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the freshness and integrity of the fruit. This is followed by ageing in French oak barrels for 12 months, during which the wine is enriched with spicy and vanilla notes. In the glass Primofiore is an intense ruby red colour, brilliant and inviting. The nose immediately reveals a broad and complex bouquet, with hints of ripe red fruit (cherry, blackberry), floral notes (violet) and spicy nuances (black pepper, cinnamon). In the mouth it is fresh and enveloping, with soft, velvety tannins. The finish is long and persistent, with returns of red fruit and mineral notes. This red wine pairs well with grilled or braised red meats, game, mature cheeses and savoury first courses.