Rosato ‘R’ Alpha Zeta 2023

This pale pink wine is made from 70% Corvina grapes, 20% Merlot and 10% Rondinella, making it a classic Valpolicella blend, though vinified as a rosé (ie little skin contact before the grapes are pressed and the juice fermented).

Attractive aromas of strawberries and cherries are followed by vibrant red fruit character on the palate, with a slightly mineral finish.  It’s a foody rosé, perfect with a summer salad, some smoked salmon, and some Taleggio cheese.

The vineyards are situated in the hills outside Verona in the Valpantena Valley. Cool currents blow down the valley from the foothills of the Dolomites, which helps to moderate the climate, enabling the grapes to ripen slowly. Liberty Wines and leading New Zealand winemaker, Matt Thomson work with growers (rather than buy bulk wine, which is standard among most wines from Verona at this price) to ensure ripe grapes (by reducing yields and picking later).