Valpolicella DOC Classico Superiore, Montegradella is one of the good red wines of the area offered by Santa Sofia. The grapes, Corvina and Corvinone for 70% and Rondinella for the remaining 30, come from the classic zone of Valpolicella, from hillside vineyards located in the municipalities of Fumane and Marano. After processing, the wine rests for about a year in wooden barrels. Of these, about 40% are 500-litre tonneaux made from French oak, while the remaining 60% are large 20 and 30-hectolitre barrels made from Slavonian oak. At the end of this long maturation phase, the wine is bottled and left to rest in the bottle for a further 12 months before being released for sale. A wine characterised by a beautiful longevity, this Montegradella in the glass has a beautiful bright ruby colour with garnet highlights. The nose immediately reveals a decisive, broad, harmonious and refined bouquet, reminiscent of prunes and cherries in alcohol. But also aromatic berries, such as cloves and the more spicy notes of vanilla. In the mouth, then, an austere wine is revealed, well supported by a silky tannic texture that caresses the palate. Perfectly balanced between freshness and alcoholic warmth, this Valpolicella guarantees a long and subtly bitter finish. This is the bottle to look for in the cellar when the menu includes richly flavoured dishes such as braised and stewed meats. Also excellent with medium (and long) aged cheeses.