Ripasso that unites the freshness of Valpolicella with the depth of Amarone

Nicolis Seccal Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore DOC is one of the distinctive wines of the Veronese tradition. It is made using the traditional ripasso technique, in which Valpolicella is refermented on the fresh pomace left from Amarone production, giving the wine greater structure, complexity, and depth while preserving its characteristic freshness.

Produced from Corvina (70%), Rondinella (20%), Molinara (5%), and Croatina (5%), Seccal combines the bright fruit and freshness of Valpolicella with richer aromas, softer tannins, and a deeper, more generous palate.

It strikes a natural balance between freshness and richness, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a structured and elegant red with greater drinkability than Amarone.

The winemaker's notes

"Ripasso is one of the most fascinating techniques of Italian winemaking tradition. Nicolis' Seccal maintains the freshness of Valpolicella while gaining complexity and depth from the Amarone pomace. It is harmonious, enveloping, and exceptionally versatile at the table."

— Yuri Stefani

Why we chose it

We chose Seccal because it captures the essence of the Ripasso style: generous and structured, yet never heavy, with the freshness needed to remain balanced and highly drinkable.

It is an ideal bottle for those who enjoy fuller-bodied reds but want more freshness and versatility than Amarone. A wine made for the table, particularly alongside the rich and comforting dishes of traditional Italian cuisine.

The territory

The grapes come from Valpolicella Classica, in the municipality of San Pietro in Cariano, one of the historic areas of the denomination.

The combination of calcareous and basaltic soils, a mild climate influenced by nearby Lake Garda, and significant temperature variations helps produce grapes with expressive aromas and good natural acidity. These characteristics provide an ideal foundation for the ripasso process, allowing the wine to gain depth and concentration while maintaining balance and freshness.

The winery

The Nicolis family has been producing wine for generations in the heart of Valpolicella Classica.

The winery's philosophy is centred on enhancing the historic denominations of the territory through traditional winemaking, manual harvesting, and careful aging, while preserving elegance and a strong sense of place.

Seccal is one of the winery's signature wines, expressing the richer and more structured side of Valpolicella while remaining unmistakably rooted in the classic tradition of the appellation.

Technical sheet

Appellation: Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore DOC

Grape varieties: 70% Corvina, 20% Rondinella, 5% Molinara, 5% Croatina

Region: Veneto

Area: Valpolicella Classica – San Pietro in Cariano (VR)

Harvest: Manual

Vinification: First spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel for approximately 12 days. A second fermentation on fresh Amarone pomace follows for approximately 8 days, according to the traditional ripasso method.

Aging: 16 months in Slavonian oak barrels and at least 4 months in bottle.

Alcohol content: 13.5% vol.

In the glass

Color

Intense, brilliant ruby red.

Bouquet

Intense and elegant, with aromas of ripe cherry, plum, red berries, sweet spices, and delicate tobacco notes.

Taste

Full-bodied, balanced, and enveloping. The palate is soft and rounded, supported by well-integrated tannins and a pleasant freshness. The finish is long and persistent, with lingering notes of ripe red fruit and sweet spices.

Food pairings

Perfect with:

• Mushroom risottos

• Lasagne and baked pasta

• Roasts

• Grilled red meats

• Braised dishes

• Light game

• Cured meats

• Aged cheeses