Tommasi Valpolicella Classico Superiore Rafael 2020

This fourth-generation family estate founded in 1902 now owns 105ha in the Valpolicella Classico zone. The grapes for Rafaèl – Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara – are grown in the 6ha, pergola-trained single vineyard on Monte Masua hill which was the first to be bought by the company. Maturation is in 65hl Slavonian oak casks for a total of 15 months. Michael Garner: Fragrant, peppery nose of hedgerow fruits and aromatic herbs. Balanced palate with a clean, dry, lightly peppery finish. Michelle Cherutti-Kowal MW: Fresh red berries with herbal notes, zesty acidity and good fruit concentration. Nice typicity and finish. Michaela Morris: Vanilla with sweet wood spice, clove and cinnamon. Palate shows some firmness, but nicely framing the concentrated, polished fruit.

Hint of coffee candy to the baked cherries, dried strawberries and chili chocolate. Quite juicy and round, with a positive sweet-sour character to the berry and plummy fruit. Medium to full body with firm but fine tannins and a medium-long finish. Very drinkable but will hold, too.