Corvina

Corvina: The main variety behind the classics from Veneto

Introduction to the Corvina grape variety

Corvina Veronese is an ancient and traditional grape variety that originates from the Veneto region of Italy. This grape variety is known for its high quality and is often used to produce red wines such as Valpolicella, Amarone and Bardolino. Corvina Veronese is characterised by its dark colour and robust tannins, which give the wines depth and structure.

One of the most remarkable characteristics of Corvina Veronese is its adaptability. It thrives both in the valley floor and on the slopes of the foothills of the Alps and is resistant to various weather conditions. This robustness makes it a preferred choice for winegrowers in Veneto and beyond.

Corvina Veronese is often blended with other grape varieties such as Rondinella and Molinara to produce balanced and harmonious wines. These combinations are particularly important in the production of Valpolicella and Amarone, where Corvina is the main variety and gives the wines their characteristic fruitiness and structure.

Some of the most famous wines produced from Corvina Veronese are:

• Valpolicella: A fruity, medium-bodied red wine with notes of cherries and spices.
• Amarone: A full-bodied wine made from dried grapes with aromas of dried fruit and chocolate.
• Bardolino: A lighter red wine characterised by its freshness and fruitiness.
• Ripasso: A wine that gains additional strength and complexity through fermentation with the skins of Amarone.

Corvina Veronese is not only an important grape variety for the Italian wine industry, but also a symbol of Veneto's wine-growing culture. Its ability to blend well with other grape varieties and its resistance to diseases and pests make it a valuable grape for winemakers and wine lovers alike. If you are looking for a red wine with lots of character and complexity, you should definitely try Corvina Veronese.

Corvina Veronese – A grape variety with character

The Corvina Veronese grape variety is one of the pillars of winegrowing in northern Italy. It originates from the Veneto region and is particularly widespread around Verona. As a late-ripening grape variety, it produces wines with depth, structure and an unmistakable aroma profile.

Corvina Veronese is known by several names, such as Corvina Gentile, Corvina Commune and Corvina Nostrana. In some sources, it is also simply referred to as Corvina Corvina to emphasise its role as the main variety. Another name for Corvina Veronese is ‘cruina’, which comes from the local dialect and refers to the late ripening of the grapes.

Growing areas and climatic conditions

Corvina is mainly cultivated in the Veneto region, in the valley around Verona and on the slopes of the Prealps. However, it is also used in neighbouring Lombardy. The soils in these regions range from calcareous loam to stony gravel soils – all of which are suitable for getting the best out of the variety.

Another related grape variety is Corva, which is also grown in Veneto and Lombardy. This family of varieties exhibits remarkable genetic diversity, which can lead to confusion between Corva and other Corvina varieties.

The grape variety is considered relatively winter-hardy and resistant to various weather conditions. It is particularly appreciated for its suitability for drying, which is of central importance for the production of Amarone and Recioto.

Corvina as the basis for famous red wines

Corvina Veronese is the main variety in numerous well-known wines from the Valpolicella region. There it is usually blended with Rondinella and Molinara. Classic Valpolicella is a fruity, medium-bodied red wine with notes of cherries, spices and sometimes almonds.

Corvinone is a grape variety closely related to Corvina Veronese and frequently grown in the Valpolicella region. It is characterised by a higher yield but lower quality compared to Corvina.

Amarone della Valpolicella, on the other hand, is made from dried grapes and has a higher alcohol content and a more robust structure. It displays aromas of dried fruit, tobacco and a hint of chocolate. Recioto, a sweet red wine, also uses dried Corvina grapes.

Corvina Corvina – pure expression of typicity

When produced as a single variety, it is sometimes referred to as Corvina Corvina. This designation emphasises the typical expression of the variety, which comes to the fore in single vineyard wines or particularly old vines. These wines usually display a strong colour, lively acidity and dense fruit, with the characteristic taste of ripe cherries and a hint of violets.

Another important but lesser-known grape variety in the Corvina family is Oseleta, which is also grown in the same region.

Wine and food: the perfect combination

A Corvina wine, whether Valpolicella or Amarone, goes well with strong dishes. Particularly good pairings are:

• Ossobuco with polenta
• Risotto with radicchio and Parmesan
• Wild game ragout with herbs
• Mature hard cheeses such as Grana Padano

Grilled vegetables, mushroom dishes and lentil stews also find a worthy partner in Corvina. Its fresh acidity and moderate tannins also make it an accessible accompaniment to pasta with tomato sauce or aubergine gratin.

Variety in style and price

The prices for Corvina wines vary depending on the vinification, age of the vines and cultivation method. While the classic Valpolicella is usually light and fresh, an Amarone is full-bodied and complex. If you are looking for something in between, try Ripasso – a wine that is fermented with the skins of Amarone, giving it additional strength.

Significance for Veneto and beyond

The importance of Corvina Veronese for Veneto cannot be overstated. Not only is it one of the region's main varieties, it also shapes the image of Italian red wines internationally. Articles in wine magazines, reviews and awards testify to the growing reputation of this grape.

Corvina Veronese is known under various names and variants, highlighting the genetic diversity and importance of these varieties within the larger family of grape varieties.

Corvina wines are also enjoying growing popularity in Switzerland. They are increasingly finding their way into the shopping baskets of wine lovers looking for wines with character and an Italian soul.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Corvina wine

What does Corvina taste like?

Corvina tastes of red cherries, a hint of almonds and violets, and often has a pleasant acidity and medium body.

What is a Corvina wine?

A Corvina wine is usually an Italian red wine from Veneto, made from the Corvina Veronese grape variety.

What does Corvina mean?

Corvina refers to both the grape variety and the wines that are mainly vinified in the Verona region.

What is Corvina wine comparable to?

Corvina is comparable to Pinot Noir in terms of fruitiness, but offers more structure and ageing potential like a Zinfandel.