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Bardolino Superiore is the higher-quality DOCG variant of Veneto's classic light red Bardolino wine, made on the eastern shores of Lake Garda. Compared to Bardolino DOC wines, to gain the DOCG status the wines must reach a minimum of 12 percent abv (against 10.5 percent) and must be aged for at least one year before release.
Grape varieties
Like its more famous neighbor Valpolicella, Bardolino is made predominantly from a blend of Corvina, Corvinone (now established as a distinct grape variety) and Rondinella grapes.
It differs from Valpolicella in the proportions of the varieties (and the possible addition of Molinara). Just like its DOC counterpart (Bardolino), a bottle of Bardolino Superiore can contain between 35 and 80 percent Corvina (of which up to 20 percent can include Corvinone although the percentage of Corvinone must be at least equalled by Corvina).
Rondinella must make up between 10 to 40 percent of the blend. There is also the possibility to add up to 20 percent "non-aromatic red varieties" grown in the region (of which each variety cannot make up more than 10 percent) – a similar allowance is also made in Valpolicella.
History
During the frenzied expansion of Veneto's vineyard area in the 1970s, local wine producers were keen to capitalize on the popularity of their wine, and pursued quantity over quality. The high yields and (short-term) profitability offered by Molinara vines meant this lesser variety was often planted in place of Corvina.
Thankfully Corvina's potential was never forgotten, and its representation in Bardolino wines has now shown consistent increases. While Corvina gives structure and weight to Bardolino, and contributes a certain sour-cherry aroma, Rondinella is responsible for the wine's characteristic and appealingly fresh, herby flavor.
Bardolino Superiore wines made from vineyards within the Bardolino Classico area are among the finest made in Veneto. These are labeled as Bardolino Superiore Classico.
For more information about the Bardolino region, its wines and its vineyards, please see Bardolino.
