Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
Rafaèl is a single-vineyard Valpolicella Superiore from the eponymous site on Monte Masua, within the Valpolicella Classica zone. It was the first vineyard acquired by the Tommasi family and has long been reserved for this wine. The vines are trained using the Pergola Veronese system.
Grapes
The blend comprises Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara, with proportions that vary by vintage. The current composition is 60% Corvina, 25% Rondinella and 15% Molinara.
Vinification
The wine undergoes 12 days of maceration and temperature-controlled fermentation at 25–30°C.
Ageing
Maturation lasts 15 months in 65 hl Slavonian oak casks. This period in wood develops savory character and aromatic richness while retaining freshness and intensity.
Technical data
Alcohol: 12.5% vol. Bottle format: 750 ml.
Tasting profile
Bright ruby red. The refined, intense bouquet combines floral and fruity tones, led by ripe cherry. The palate is graceful and silky, with supple, persistently fresh fruit and a light, elegant character.
Published assessments add vintage-specific perspectives. James Suckling described the 2015 as balanced and medium- to full-bodied, with dark fruit, chocolate, orange peel, light tannins and a fresh finish. His 2016 note emphasized dried strawberry, glazed cherry, dried spices and herbs, a firm red-fruit core and a moderately chewy finish. Wine & Spirits found the 2016 balanced between red and black fruit, with sage, mint and marjoram, velvety tannins, mouthwatering acidity and an increasingly savory character after exposure to air.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 14–16°C. The wine suits pasta with rich sauces, roasts, white meats and moderately aged cheeses. It can also accompany spicy Oriental dishes and full-flavored fish soups. It may be opened immediately or rested in the cellar for a few years.
Label / history
Rafaèl is closely connected to the history of the Tommasi family. The family’s predecessors identified the Rafaèl vineyard as particularly well suited to Valpolicella Superiore, making this single-vineyard wine a longstanding family reference.
Sustainability
The vineyard is managed under an integrated production system intended to support environmentally sustainable agricultural practices. No products of animal origin or products containing allergens are used during production. Cellar resources are optimized, waste is avoided where possible and recycling is practiced. Packaging includes FSC-certified organic corks, FSC-certified label paper and recycled-paper cartons.
