2017 Garbole Heletto Rosso Veneto

About the Garbole winery and its history

The Garbole winery is located in the Illasi Valley, in the province of Verona, Veneto. This region is historically important for the production of high-quality wines. Garbole was founded by the Finetto brothers, who, without formal oenological training, developed their own unique approach to viticulture. What began as a personal ambition has grown into a producer known for its uncompromising focus on quality and expressive wines. The brothers combine traditional techniques with modern insights, resulting in wines with a distinctive character.

The godfathers of Amarone are undoubtedly Quintarelli, the legendary Romano Dal Forno, and now the Garbole boutique winery. These are the undisputed pinnacles of Valpolicella and Amarone wines. At Garbole, winemaking is almost manic, with quality, not quantity, at the heart of the process. The entire vineyard process is entirely manual, with grape by grape being inspected. Only the very best grapes are used in their wines, while the unselected grapes are used as (very expensive) fertilizer for the vineyard.

Region, climate and terroir of Rosso Veneto

The Illasi Valley lies in the heart of Veneto and is characterized by rolling hills and chalky soil. This terroir is ideal for grapes like Corvina and Rondinella. The microclimate is continental with Mediterranean influences: warm summers and cool nights allow the grapes to ripen slowly, which benefits aroma development and acidity. The combination of altitude, soil diversity, and ventilation creates ideal conditions for concentrated, elegant wines.

Types of wines and philosophy

Garbole produces exclusively red wines, including Valpolicella Superiore, Amarone della Valpolicella Riserva, Recioto della Valpolicella, and several IGT Rosso Veneto wines. Each wine is vinified with the utmost precision. The winery uses only hand harvesting and selects only the finest grapes. Vinification is carried out with minimal intervention, focusing on the natural character of the grape and terroir. Garbole wines are powerful, full-bodied, yet always balanced, and are characterized by their long aging potential.

Garbole Heletto Rosso Veneto: grapes and harvest

The 2017 Heletto Rosso Veneto is made from a blend primarily of Corvina and Rondinella, with a small addition of other indigenous grape varieties. The grapes come from carefully selected plots and are harvested exclusively by hand. After harvesting, the grapes are lightly dried in small wooden crates for approximately three to four weeks. This process, similar to appassimento, concentrates the sugars and aromas, resulting in a more powerful and complex wine profile.

Vinification and aging of Heletto

After the drying period, the grapes are destemmed and gently pressed. Fermentation takes place under controlled temperatures with regular pumping over for maximum extraction. This is followed by 36 months of maturation in new American oak barriques. During this long aging period, the wine develops its structure, depth, and aromatic complexity. After bottling, the wine rests in the bottle for at least 12 months before being released. The result is a wine of power and finesse, made for long-term aging.

Color, odor and flavor profile

The Heletto 2017 presents itself with a deep, concentrated ruby red color. The nose opens with intense black fruit notes such as cherries and plums, followed by layers of almond, licorice, balsamic vinegar, mint, cocoa, and a hint of coffee. On the palate, the wine is powerful and dry, with ripe tannins and a lovely, fresh acidity that provides balance and length. The finish is long, with notes of candied fruit and toasted wood that linger elegantly. This wine is rich, layered, and distinctive.

Would you like to order Garbole wines online?

The Garbole Heletto Rosso Veneto is in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse and is available for immediate delivery or pickup. When you select "Pickup" during checkout, you'll see your discount immediately. If you pick up your wine in Dordrecht – close to the A16 motorway and with ample parking – you'll often receive an attractive discount. Click here for our address.

Any fact sheets, additional information, and photos can be found in the " Appendix" tab. Full reviews from renowned wine critics such as Parker, Suckling, and Vinous can be viewed via the links next to the image. This service is available free of charge to our customers.

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Recommended wine and food pairings

1. Roasted venison fillet with red wine jus
   The powerful structure and rich fruit notes of the Heletto perfectly complement the depth of the game and the sauce.

2. Tagliata of entrecote with rocket and Parmesan
   The firm bite of the meat is softened by the ripe tannins, while the salty Parmesan contrasts nicely with the fruit.

3. Risotto with mushrooms and truffle oil
   The earthy flavors in this dish enhance the spicy and dark aromas of the wine.

4. Eggplant parmigiana with mozzarella and tomato
   The soft texture of the aubergine and the creamy character of mozzarella harmonise well with the structure and acidity of the Heletto.

5. Beef stew in red wine with carrots
   The intensity of the stew and the caramelised character fit seamlessly with the powerful, long-matured style of the wine.