I decided to visit this tiny winery in the Valpolicella region, Corte Martini, after I had the chance to taste a fantastic Amarone in a great restaurant in Torbe di Negrar Verona: Trattoria Caprini.
The history of the Caprini family and the Corte Martini is unique: 4 generations have been running this family business – an osteria, a bakery and a restaurant – since 1908, the symbol of the hospitality of Torbe.
The visit to the winery starts with the newly-renovated cellar and a view of the wine production, with the grapes picked by hand and placed in wooden boxes. The owner’s passion for Corvina, Corvinona, Molinara and Rondinella is what makes these wines so genuine: Valpolicella Superiore, Ripasso, Amarone and a remarkable Recioto!
In this picture you can see how the door entrance was changed for the barrels to be easily moved in and out … a brilliant idea!
This is the best combination we tasted at the Trattoria Caprini, tortelli stuffed with seasonal vegetables and Amarone Classico della Valpolicella 2011!
The old photo of the Famiglia Caprini which also appears on the bottles produced at the Corte Martini.
Pietro Marchesin, heir of the family, tells that:
The historical cellar “I Martini”, with a vaulted ceiling built from the local stone – Pietra di Prun, has been used for the ageing of excellent wines in wooden barrels since 1908. Today I continue the tradition, with my father’s advice. The vines are cultivated on the so-called “pergola veronese” and grapes harvesting is a meticulous ritual performed by hand in order to respect the natural rhythm of nature and enable the grapes to reach optimum ripeness.
Wine Princess recommends ordering a sandwich with soppressa salami and a glass of Valpolicella Ripasso at the osteria!
A walk in the vineyards of Corvinona. The name of this vine might come from its colour, which is close to black and recalls crow – corvo – feathers. The result is a ruby coloured, fruity, rich and tannic wine! Grapes picked by hand and placed in wooden boxes … their colour is amazing!
Corte Martini, passion for the land and the vineyards … and a delicious Recioto wine!
Wine Princess suggests
Amarone della valpolicella 2011. The name “Amarone” comes from the word “amaro”, bitter, to distinguish it from the Recioto della Valpolicella, which is a sweet wine. An intense, velvety and rich ruby coloured wine – with ripe fruit, sour cherry and raspberry scents. Lush and elegant mouthfeel.
Who should drink it: Those who love full-bodied and structured red wine. You’ll be amazed by the smoothness of its tannins.
When to drink it: On a Sunday, for lunch, the first grey autumn day, combined with fresh pasta and traditional ragù sauce.
A wonderful opportunity: A lunch or a dinner at the Trattoria Caprini, tasting one of their best recipes, stewed rabbit or, as they call it, Coniglio in Teja . Well worth the trip!
God save the wine!