Rondinella

Rondinella – A versatile grape variety with great potential

Rondinella Rondinella: Origin and significance

The Rondinella grape variety originates from north-eastern Italy and is particularly closely associated with the Veneto region. As a typical Italian grape, it is an important component of many Italian wines and exemplifies Italy's winegrowing tradition. The main growing areas for this Italian grape variety are in Veneto and Lombardy, where it is cultivated in the well-known wine regions. Rondinella plays an important role, especially in the areas around Verona – in Valpolicella, Soave and Bardolino. There, it is a regular component of cuvées and has a decisive influence on their character. Rondinella stocks are very high, especially in Italy, particularly in Veneto and Lombardy, which underlines its importance for regional wine production.

The genetic origin of the grape variety is not entirely clear, but it is thought to be a natural cross between Corvina Veronese and an unknown variety. A robust vine, it forms the heart of many Italian classics such as Amarone and Ripasso, together with Corvinone and Molinara.

Characteristics of the Rondinella grape variety

Rondinella is an extremely robust grape variety that is not very susceptible to disease and produces stable yields even in difficult weather conditions. This resilience makes it particularly popular with winegrowers. The vine also shows high resistance to fungal diseases, which makes it even easier to grow.

 The grapes are deep in colour and rich in anthocyanins, which has a direct impact on the colour of the wines. Rondinella produces fruity, medium-bodied wines. Typical aromas include ripe cherries, plums and red berries, complemented by spicy notes and a fine acidity. 

Particularly noteworthy is the pronounced cherry aroma, which gives the wine its characteristic fruitiness. The bouquet of Rondinella wines impresses with its aromatic complexity, with notes of cherries, spices and herbs. When blended, it serves to intensify the body and colour without losing any of its freshness.

Rondinella and its role in great wines

Rondinella is indispensable as a blending partner in well-known products such as Amarone, Valpolicella Classico and Ripasso. Its role is usually to give the wines more volume and aromatic depth. While Corvina Veronese provides the framework and Corvinone ensures structure, Rondinella brings colour, fruit and a certain lightness to the mix.

The grape variety is also used in Lombardy and other neighbouring regions of Italy, especially in areas where elegant and balanced red wines are in demand. Pure varietal wines are also available, although they are less commonly marketed.

Wine and food – Rondinella as an accompaniment to food

Rondinella wines are particularly versatile when it comes to pairing with food. Their fruity character and balanced acidity make them ideal accompaniments to numerous dishes. Examples of suitable combinations are:

• Pasta with spicy tomato sauces or ragù
• Pizza with air-dried ham, olives and artichokes
• Grilled veal or pork chops
• Lasagne with ricotta and spinach
• Mature hard cheeses such as Grana Padano or Pecorino

A glass of Rondinella is also an excellent accompaniment to antipasti platters with salami, grilled vegetables and marinated olives. Ripasso wines containing Rondinella are particularly impressive with their balance of power and elegance – perfect for convivial evenings with good food.

Vintages, bottles and product selection

Depending on the vintage, Rondinella wines can develop different depths and expressiveness. Particularly good vintages are characterised by intense fruit and harmonious acidity. The selection of products ranges from fresh everyday wines to complex cuvées aged in wood.

The bottles vary in size and style, from slim standard formats to special vintage editions. The Veneto region remains the centre for high-quality Rondinella wines, although wines from Lombardy are becoming increasingly popular.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Rondinella wine

Which wine is typical of Lake Garda?

Wines such as Bardolino, in which Rondinella is regularly used as a grape variety, are typical of the Lake Garda region. There, it provides fruity lightness and a beautiful colour.

What kind of grape variety is Rondinella?

Rondinella is a red grape variety from northern Italy that is particularly widespread in Veneto and Lombardy. It is mostly used in combination with Corvina Veronese and Corvinone.

What role does Rondinella play in Amarone?

Rondinella is an important component of Amarone. It brings colour, fruit and harmonious acidity to the wine and ideally complements the structure of Corvina Veronese.

Where is Rondinella grown?

The grape variety is mainly cultivated in Veneto and Lombardy. It is particularly well known in the regions around Verona and throughout Veneto.

What aromas does Rondinella wine have?

Rondinella is characterised by fruity aromas of cherries, red berries and plums. Depending on the vinification, spicy and herbaceous notes are added, especially in Ripasso or Amarone wines.