The 2011 Giuseppe Quintarelli Recioto della Valpolicella Classico is a proprietary blend from the renowned Veneto region in Italy, specifically within the Valpolicella Classico appellation. This wine is crafted by the esteemed producer Giuseppe Quintarelli and is known for its deep red color and robust profile. With an alcohol content of 15.0%, it presents itself as a bold and distinctive choice for wine enthusiasts.
Celebrated wine critic James Suckling has awarded this wine an impressive score of 97. Suckling describes it as "a totem of the region," highlighting its unique production process which includes six months of appassimento—a traditional Italian method of drying grapes—and a decade of barrel aging. This meticulous process contributes to the wine's complex character, which Suckling notes includes flavors reminiscent of "Chinotto, alpine spruce, bitter cherry, clove, mahogany and walnut husk." He further praises its exotic undertones, likening them to "incense and Chinese medicine cabinet."
Suckling's review emphasizes the wine's dry finish, which he describes as "uncannily dry of feel, sooty and almost gritty," attributing this to the wine's precise tannic structure. He finds the wine to be "compelling gear," suggesting that each sip offers something new and complex, akin to "discovering a new needle in a haystack." This description underscores the wine's intricate and layered profile, making it a fascinating choice for those who appreciate depth and nuance.
Overall, the 2011 Giuseppe Quintarelli Recioto della Valpolicella Classico stands out for its remarkable complexity and the high regard in which it is held by critics. It is recommended for both immediate enjoyment and for those who wish to hold it for further aging, allowing its character to evolve over time.