More widely known as either Corvina Veronese or Cruina, the Corvina grape wine is a particular grape wine variety that is commonly cultivated in the Veneto region of northeast Italy. This grape wine is made from Corvina grapes, a small variety that is known for having a dark blue-black color. These grapes are infamous for being hard to grow and cultivate yet remain as one of the most sought-after varieties because of its strong exquisite flavor. Winemakers and grape growers everywhere also appreciate the fact that Corvina grapes are more resistant to rot if compared to other grape varieties.
The Corvina has long been used to make wine, in fact documents written by Cassiodoro (Visigoth King Theodorus magistrate) dating as early as the sixth century describe a sweet wine produced using half dried grapes from Verona. Historians conclude that this “straw wine” made from drying grapes in straw mats were in fact earlier versions of Amarone or Recioto wines made from Corvina grapes. Historical evidence also shows that Lombard King Rotari even passed an official proclamation that prevented Corvina grapes from being pulled or harvested without permission. Corvina-based wines were also the primary export product in Venice before the Ottoman embargo. The Corvina-based wines even survived the devastating effects of the 19th century Phylloxera crisis which crippled many wineries and grape plantations.
Today, there are pure Corvina wines, although it is more common to see Corvina grapes blended and mixed with other grape varieties in order to make wines such as Bardolino, Valpolicella and Amarone. The famous Valpolicella wine is made up of 85% Corvina grapes, with alcohol content making up most of the remainder. Some types of sweet sparkling wines available in the market are also Corvina-based. The most renowned brands of Corvina-based wines include the Vigna Corvina Cerasuolo, the Vigna Corvina Montepulciano and the Vigna Corvina Trebbiano.
Corvina grapes usually generate wines with a medium body and flavor and with a crimson color. The grapes have naturally high acidity levels which produce wines that are commonly tart to the taste buds, with a hint of almond or sour cherry. The Corvina-based Valpolicella wine has several subtypes, depending on the manner by which the wine was produces, such as Amarone, Ripasso and the sweet dessert wine Recioto. The type of the Valpolicella often determines the ideal companion to the wine. For instance, the Amarone is ideal for heart dishes while the Reicioto Della Valpolicella’s strong fruity flavor makes it an ideal companion to pastries and other sweet desserts.
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