Monte Zovo Valpolicella Ripasso 2007 Reviewed

A rustic Italian red wine that pairs well with hearty dishes.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The author reviews the Monte Zovo Valpolicella Ripasso 2007, a red wine from the Valpolicella region of Italy's Veneto. The wine is described as having a deep garnet color, a demonstrative nose of black cherry and blackberry, and a palate with dry, dusty, brambly notes reminiscent of old-vine Zinfandel. Despite spending two years in oak, the wood influence is not overpowering. The author enjoyed pairing this wine with a farfalle and sausage dish at the Italian restaurant Il Buco.

Why it matters

This review provides insight into an Italian red wine that may be of interest to readers looking to explore new or lesser-known varietals. The Valpolicella Ripasso style, which involves re-fermenting the wine on Amarone grape skins, results in a unique and flavorful wine that can pair well with hearty Italian cuisine.

The details

The Monte Zovo Valpolicella Ripasso 2007 is made from a blend of Corvina (70%), Rondinella (20%), and Molinara (10%) grapes. The "Ripasso" method involves re-fermenting the wine on the skins used to make Amarone, a more robust and concentrated Valpolicella wine. This process gives the Ripasso wine additional structure, complexity, and alcohol content (14% ABV). The author notes the wine has a deep garnet color, aromas of black cherry and blackberry, and a palate with dry, dusty, brambly characteristics reminiscent of old-vine Zinfandel.

  • The review was published on February 15, 2026.

The players

Monte Zovo

A winery located in the Valpolicella region of Italy's Veneto, known for producing Ripasso-style Valpolicella wines.

Il Buco

An Italian restaurant where the author enjoyed pairing the Monte Zovo Valpolicella Ripasso 2007 with a farfalle and sausage dish.

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What they’re saying

“The Monte Zovo Ripasso is the sort of wine I have come to expect from Il Buco, very Italian, a bit rustic and a great match with the food they make.”

— Randy Fuller, Author (nowandzin.com)

The takeaway

This review highlights the versatility and food-friendly nature of the Valpolicella Ripasso style of wine, which can be a flavorful and satisfying option for those looking to explore Italian reds beyond the more well-known Chianti or Barolo.