Characteristics of the Wine 

Fortificato is a sweet fortified wine with an intense garnet red color and violet reflections. Its aroma is dominated by notes of plum and cherry jam, while the taste is smooth, velvety, and persistent on the palate. 

This wine is primarily composed of Corvina Veronese and Corvinone Veronese grapes, with the addition of Rondinella. The grapes are handpicked and selected towards the end of September to ensure the highest quality. 

Fortificato is produced in the hilly vineyards of the municipality of Marano di Valpolicella, within the classic area of the denomination. These vineyards are characterized by a southwest exposure and calcareous-eocene soil that promotes the growth of the grapes and the quality of the wine. 

Winemaking 

The vinification of Fortificato is a ritual that embodies the art of winemaking, requiring absolute dedication to extract the best from the selected grapes. After being handpicked towards the end of September, the grapes undergo a transformation process that brings them to their aromatic and flavorful peak. 

Once in the drying room, the grapes begin a long process of drying, which leads to the loss of some of their water content, concentrating the sugars and aromas that will later be the distinctive signature of the final wine. 

After drying, the grapes are gently pressed to ensure that the must retains all its flavor and aromatic nuances. This must then undergoes prolonged maceration, during which temperature control allows for the proper extraction of the desired components. 

Once maceration is complete, the still-sweet wine is racked and cooled to temperatures below 10°C. This step is crucial to preserve the desired residual sugars. Continuous racking during this process ensures the wine’s cleanliness and purity by removing any residues and sediments. 

Finally, before bottling, the wine undergoes its final step: the addition of aged brandy, which gives Fortificato its unique character, velvety body, and enviable longevity. This marriage between wine and brandy, following the ancient tradition of Valpolicella, is the final touch that makes Fortificato an enological treasure to be enjoyed and shared on special occasions. 

Gastronomic Pairings 

Fortificato is an ideal wine to enjoy as a dessert wine or for meditation, thanks to its sweetness and aromatic complexity. The gastronomic pairings with this wine are numerous and can best highlight its sensory characteristics. 

To accompany Fortificato, fruit tarts are an excellent choice, as the freshness and acidity of the fruit perfectly balance the wine’s sweetness. Additionally, desserts containing dried fruits, such as almonds, walnuts, or figs, pair wonderfully with Fortificato’s rich and fruity aromatic profile. 

Among the most appreciated pairings is certainly with dark chocolate. The complexity and smoothness of Fortificato harmonize beautifully with the intensity and bitterness of dark chocolate, creating a delightful combination for the palate. 

To fully enjoy its qualities, it is advisable to serve Fortificato chilled, to appreciate its freshness and aromatic complexity fully. 

Curiosities 

What is the story behind Fortificato from Cantina Campagnola? This wine has its roots in the rich winemaking heritage of Valpolicella, where traditional production techniques have been passed down through generations. Its very name, “Fortificato,” refers to the centuries-old practice of adding grape distillate to the wine, enriching it with depth and complexity. 

Beyond its history linked to ancient traditions, Fortificato from Cantina Campagnola also hides many curiosities. For instance, the drying process of the grapes in the drying room is an ancient art that requires patience and skill, giving the wine an ideal sugar concentration to enhance its sweet and fruity profile. Additionally, careful temperature control during prolonged maceration helps to extract the best aromas and tannins from the grape skins, giving the wine unique complexity and structure. 

The role of aged brandy added before bottling should not be underestimated, as it not only gives Fortificato greater character and body but also ensures exceptional longevity. This practice, passed down through generations, is a true secret to the success of this extraordinary wine. 

We invite you to discover its unique charm by visiting our winery and embarking on an unparalleled sensory journey. We are ready to welcome you and share the passion and pride we put into every bottle. 

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