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 Arele come from hillside vineyards in the Valpolicella Classico area. The vineyards are situated at 290-330m with south/south west exposure. The soils are clay and loam of volcanic origin. The vines are Guyot trained at a density of 6,500 vines per hectare.
The grapes are fermented at 26-28°C in stainless steel tanks for seven days. After fermentation, the wine is matured for 12 months in 65 hectolitre Slavonian oak casks before bottling.
2012 was characterised by warm weather and extremely dry conditions. The lack of rain which resulted in clean, healthy fruit that was concentrated and ripe.
The colour is intense, deep ruby red. Flavours of crushed black raspberry, black cherry, plum compote, dried herbs and mulled spice. The taste is full bodied, juicy, spicy red with a riding creamy palate and a long, refined finish.
Excellent with pasta, pork, red meats and game. Also serve with cheese.
Serve at 16-18°C.
IGT Veneto
60% Corvina
30% Rondinella
5% Oseleta
5% Merlot
Natural cork
13%
