Founded by Giacomo Tommasi in 1902, Tommasi has grown to be the largest family-owned vineyard estate in the Valpolicella Classica, owning 105 hectares and an additional 15 hectares in the Lugana DOC. Tommasi is located in Pedemonte in the heart of the historic ‘Classico’ region, from which the best quality wines are produced. The estate is owned and managed by the fourth generation of the Tommasi family, with six family members working together in harmony. Pierangelo manages the UK market, while winemaker, Giancarlo prefers to stay close the vineyards and winery.
The grapes for the Amarone come from hillside vineyards in the Valpolicella Classico area; Conca d’Oro and La Groletta vineyards. The vineyards are situated at 290-330m with south/south west exposure. The soils are clay and loam of volcanic origin. The vines are trained using the traditional pergola system (3,500 vines/ha) and also Guyot at a density of 6,500 vines per hectare.
The very best grape bunches were carefully selected and hand-picked. The grapes were then laid out in boxes of 5-6 kg and naturally dried in the fruttaio (a large room with natural air circulation) for four months. After the ‘appasimento’ or drying process, the grapes were gently pressed the following January. A skin maceration and alcoholic fermentation took place in wooden vats at 26-28°C lasting 40 days . After fermentation, the wine was matured for 30 months in 35 hectolitre Slavonian oak barrels before bottling. The wines is aged for a further year in bottle before release.
The 2013 vintage was characterized by a long, mild winter and rainy spring, with temperatures below the seasonal average. However, a warm summer and autumn led to the harvest of healthy grapes with an intense aromatic profile. The temperate autumn climate, with low humidity, allowed a slow and optimal Appassimento (drying process). The climatic conditions of the vintage have provided high quality wines, characterised by a good balance between fruity, polyphenolic and acidic components. The combination of ripe tannins and fresh acidity suggest long ageing potential and interesting aromatic progression throughout the ageing process.
Deep ruby in colour with a garnet rim. The wine has complex aromas of dark fruit, spice, black pepper, licorice and cocoa. The palate is concentrated with excellent structure and flavours of ripe and dried fruits, spice and dark chocolate. A long, dry, velvety finish.
Braised red meats, game and mature cheese.
Valpolicella Classico, Veneto
Corvina Veronese - 50%
Corvinone - 15%
Rondinella - 30%
Oseleta - 5%
Natural Cork
15.5%
