Aged in barrique and large oak casks, the 2010 Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore is not shy in terms of its aromatic delivery. It unleashes a stream of cherry and cassis aromas backed by dark prune, plum and rum cake. Standard oak-related tones of exotic spice and tobacco fill in the rear. This is a correct but somewhat anonymous Ripasso.

The 2009 Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore is a tight and linear wine that would pair with simple roast meats and garlic potatoes. This is an essentially food-friendly expression with a point of acidity that is backed by dark vanilla stick, cherry, dried earth and spice. Mild tannins give it some structure but the wine is soft and velvety overall. Some 120,000 bottles are produced annually. Drink 2013-2018. Rocca Sveva is the top-shelf line from Soave powerhouse cooperative Cantina di Soave. Importer: Mionetto USA/MWimportsUSA, www.mwimportsusa.com

This balanced red offers flavors of raisin, dried cherry, tobacco and lavender, with chewy tannins. Subtle, with lightly juicy acidity and hints of smoke and espresso on the finish. Drink now through 2015. 400 cases made. -AN

Here’s a perfect match to sausage and white beans. This bright and clean Ripasso offers easy notes of spice and mature fruit with a distinctive note of almond nut. It delivers a lean, but firm mouthfeel with a light alcoholic push at the end. ——M.L.(2/1/2011)—— 88