Grape · Red
Corvina
Moderate climate
About
Key grape in Veneto. Made as light Valpolicella, but also dried (appassimento) to produce concentrated, full-bodied Amarone della Valpolicella and sweet Recioto.
Typical profile
Body
Moderate
Tannins
Smooth
Acidity
Bright
Sweetness
Dry
Aromas
What the grape gives up young, and what it grows into with time in bottle.
Young · fresh from the glass
Oak influence
None
Growing regions
How the grape expresses across places, grouped by country. Chips call out how a region's style deviates from the grape's default.
Food pairings
Osso buco alla milanese with saffron risottoAged Parmigiano-Reggiano with chestnut honey and walnutsBraised short ribs with Amarone reduction and roasted root vegetablesWild boar ragu with pappardelle pastaGrilled portobello mushrooms stuffed with gorgonzola and herbsDark chocolate tart with espresso and candied orange peel
Similar grapes
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Corvina taste like?▼
Corvina typically shows bright red cherry and sour cherry flavors with subtle almond and herbal notes. When made into Amarone through the appassimento drying process, it develops rich concentrated flavors of dried fruit, chocolate, and leather.
Where does Corvina grow best?▼
Corvina thrives in the Veneto region of northern Italy, particularly in moderate climate conditions. It's the key grape variety in the Valpolicella zone where it produces everything from light everyday wines to the prestigious Amarone della Valpolicella.
What food pairs with Corvina?▼
Light Valpolicella made from Corvina pairs beautifully with pasta, pizza, and grilled meats. The more concentrated Amarone style works excellently with rich dishes like braised meats, aged cheeses, and game.
How does Corvina age?▼
As Corvina ages, it evolves from bright cherry and herbal characteristics to more complex notes of dried fruit, chocolate, and leather. The grape's natural acidity helps it age gracefully, especially in the concentrated Amarone style.
Is Corvina similar to other similar grapes?▼
Corvina shares some characteristics with other Italian red varieties like Sangiovese in terms of bright acidity and cherry flavors. However, its unique ability to be dried for appassimento and its distinctive almond notes make it quite distinctive among Italian reds.