Rocca Alata Valpolicella Superiore DOC
Medium-bodied Red. Produced in a traditional dry style that emphasizes fruit purity and refreshing acidity, common to the hills north of Verona. · Cantina di Soave. A major Italian cooperative founded in 1898, it represents thousands of growers and is significantly reputable for producing high-quality wines at accessible prices from the Veneto region. The Rocca Alata label is their premium brand focused on Valpolicella and Amarone.
Vintage: The exact vintage is not visible on the label, but Valpolicella Superiore is typically released 18-24 months after harvest. In Valpolicella, recent years like 2018-2020 have generally provided steady, warm growing seasons with good ripeness.
Type
Medium-bodied Red. Produced in a traditional dry style that emphasizes fruit purity and refreshing acidity, common to the hills north of Verona.
Producer
Cantina di Soave. A major Italian cooperative founded in 1898, it represents thousands of growers and is significantly reputable for producing high-quality wines at accessible prices from the Veneto region. The Rocca Alata label is their premium brand focused on Valpolicella and Amarone.
Country
Italy. One of the world's most ancient and diverse wine-producing nations, Italy is famous for its strict DOC/DOCG classification systems and its focus on indigenous grape varieties like those found in the northeast Veneto region.
Vintage
The exact vintage is not visible on the label, but Valpolicella Superiore is typically released 18-24 months after harvest. In Valpolicella, recent years like 2018-2020 have generally provided steady, warm growing seasons with good ripeness.
Region & Appellation
Veneto, Valpolicella DOC Superiore. The 'Superiore' designation indicates the wine has been aged for at least one year and possesses a higher minimum alcohol content than standard Valpolicella, typically resulting in more depth and complexity.
Grape Varieties
A classic blend of Corvina Veronese, Rondinella, and Molinara. Corvina provides body and structure with black cherry notes; Rondinella adds color and herbal complexity; Molinara provides acidity and a characteristic saltiness.
Color & Appearance
Bright ruby red with medium intensity. As a Superiore, it may show slight garnet reflections at the rim, indicating its time spent in wood or bottle maturation.
Aroma Profile
A fragrant bouquet dominated by red cherries, raspberries, and wild strawberries. Secondary notes include dried herbs, black pepper, and a subtle hint of vanilla or toasted oak from the Superiore aging process.
Tasting Notes
The palate is lively and well-structured with a harmonious balance between juicy red fruit and savory earthiness. It starts with a burst of tart cherry, leading into a mid-palate of spice and dried flowers, finishing with a pleasant almond-like bitterness.
Flavor Profile
Distinct flavors of sour cherry, plum, and cranberry. These are complemented by savory nuances of oregano, crushed gravel, and a slight touch of cocoa and sweet tobacco on the finish.
Body & Texture
Medium-bodied with a smooth, almost velvety texture. It lacks the heavy viscosity of an Amarone, instead offering a nimble and elegant mouthfeel that is very food-friendly.
Acidity & Tannins
High, bright acidity that is typical of Veronese reds. The tannins are fine-grained and soft—integrated well into the wine's structure to provide a slight grip without being astringent.
Sweetness Level
Dry (Secco). Residual sugar is minimal, typically under 4 g/L, allowing the natural fruit sweetness and acidity to drive the profile.
Alcohol Content
Usually between 12.5% and 13.5% ABV. This level is slightly higher than standard Valpolicella, contributing to a fuller body without creating heat on the palate.
Aging & Oak
Aged for a minimum of 12 months, usually in large Slavonian oak casks (botti) or second-use French barriques. This provides subtle spice and oxygenation without overpowering the delicate fruit with heavy wood flavors.
Food Pairings
Ideal with classic Italian fare such as pasta with ragù, mushroom risotto, or veal scallopini. It also pairs excellently with medium-aged cheeses like Asiago or Provolone and cured meats/salumi.
Serving Suggestions
Serve at 16-18°C (60-64°F) in a standard red wine or Bordeaux-style glass. Decanting for 30 minutes is recommended to allow the bouquet to open, especially for a Superiore bottling.
Price Range
Approximately $12 - $18 USD. It represents an excellent value-to-quality ratio, offering more sophistication than entry-level reds while remaining very affordable.
Quality Assessment
87-89 points. This is a high-quality, reliable commercial wine that showcases the elegance of the Valpolicella region. It is a 'Super-Premium' tier within the value category.
Production Methods
Harvested from selected hillside vineyards. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel at controlled temperatures, followed by the required aging period of at least one year in wood to earn the 'Superiore' label.
Terroir
The vineyards sit on limestone and marl soils in the foothills of the Alps. This cool-climate influence, combined with the sunny exposure of the Veronese hills, ensures slow ripening and high aromatic intensity.
History & Heritage
Cantina di Soave was established over 125 years ago and has played a pivotal role in the modernization of Veneto winemaking. The Rocca Alata line is a tribute to the fortified cities and castles ('Rocca') that dot the Veronese landscape.
Interesting Facts
Valpolicella Superiore is often overlooked in favor of its powerful cousin, Amarone, but many sommeliers prefer it for its versatility and its ability to showcase the true characteristics of the Corvina grape without the raisined influence of appassimento.
Cellaring Potential
Best enjoyed within 3 to 5 years of the vintage. While it has the structure to hold, it is designed to be consumed while the red fruit profile is fresh and vibrant.
Similar Wines
Allegrini Valpolicella, Masi 'Bonacosta' Valpolicella, or a lighter-style Barbera d’Asti from Piedmont. Also comparable to a village-level Beaujolais (Gamay) due to the bright fruit and acidity.