Corvina

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Corvina is a native of Veneto in North Eastern Italy and holds an eternal claim to fame as the indispensable ingredient in Italy’s finest red wine blend, Amarone Della Valpolicella. This powerful and hedonistic blend is led by Corvina that brings intense fruit and character to Amarone Della Valpolicella that is described pervasively as pure vinous art.

That is fine praise in itself but Corvina does more than hold its own as a single varietal wine. Corvina is widely produced as an IGT wine in Veneto and producers are not deterred by its late ripening cycle because the end result of vigorous ferment makes the Corvina a worthwhile fruit to labour for.

Around The World

Nearly all of Corvina is grown and vinified and in Veneto, some crafty New World winemakers couldn’t stop themselves getting in on it. So Australian winemakers have turned out a few vintages in New South Wales where the Hilltops region enjoys a climate similar to that of Veneto.

Tastes Like

While almost all of Corvina is destined for the higher purpose Amarone and Valpolicella blends, a straight up Corvina is immediately recognized for a pleasing light body and notes of strawberry, sour cherry and herbs with copious red fruit and firm tannins to finish.

On The Palate

The wine is defined by juicy acidity, light body and tones of red fruit and herbs, finishing on the back on supple tannins.

Pairing Recommendations

Now Corvina is clearly a red wine but light character and acidity lends the wine to dishes one would only really pair with whites. So seafood is certainly on the menu as are salads and grilled veggies. You can also enjoy moderately spiced curries and creamy pastas and pork ribs.

key styles

The most top of mind Corvina style is the religiously sought out Amarone Della Valpolicella. Corvina along with Molinara and Rondinella is set aside to dry for up to four months to concentrate flavour and sugar, resulting in a wine bearing opulent fruit, high alcohol and silky tannins.