From the Veneto region, renowned for its Amarone and Valpolicella wines, the Millefiori Appassimento Veneto is a different blend of Corvina and Merlot grapes. These grapes are selected from low-yielding vineyards in Northern Italy. 60% of the harvest undergoes the traditional appassimento method, where the grapes are dried in well-ventilated lofts. This technique, commonly associated with Amarone and certain styles of Valpolicella, concentrates the grapes’ aromas and flavours, resulting in richer and more complex wine.
Produced and bottled by Puglia-based, not Veneto-based, Cantine Paolo Leo, this wine diverges from what is typical by using Merlot to complement the Corvina rather than Corvinone, Rondinella and Molinara. The winemaker, Paolo Leo, is also more commonly known for his Primitivo and Negroamaro from Puglia, which brings a different perspective.
The 2022 vintage, with an ABV of 13.5%, is beautifully presented with a lovely bottle label. This wine has a rating of 4.1 on Vivino. In the glass, the wine exhibits a slight purple hue. The bouquet is reminiscent of cherries, raspberries and prunes. On the palate, it is soft, medium to full-bodied, and round, with a spiciness and a lingering finish. Initially, the sweetness was more pronounced than I personally prefer but gradually the underlying taste became very enjoyable.
For those who appreciate sweeter versions of Valpolicella, Millefiori Appassimento Veneto is a great, more affordable, choice. It is priced at £9.50 from Tesco, or £8.50 with a clubcard, and can be found for even less during a 25% off period. I purchased for only £6.38 and wonder how this price is even possible. Morrisons also offer it at £9.
