2017 Secondo Marco, Valpolicella Classico Superiore Ripasso

For those of us on the West Coast who’ve been roasting the past week plus, all we can do is dream of the cool autumn nights, falling leaves, and patter of rain. It’s coming, and when it does I want us all to be ready with a perfect soul-warming, seductive, deeply complex bottle of red wine. Today’s Valpolicella Ripasso from the iconic Marco Speri is my top pick for that selection, whether you’re already ensconced in the fall weather or eagerly awaiting it. Bringing years of experience to the table, Marco has crafted a perfectly balanced wine that gets at the heart of Valpolicella–rich and spicy, with just the right “hint” of Amarone, and yet also vibrant, elegant, and deliciously complex. It’s ideal for that big fall feast (mushroom or truffle pasta please!), but also right at home with some cheese, charcuterie, and a roaring fire. It has just the right amount of bottle age, and it’s an incredible value . . . load up! Secondo Marco is the passion project of Marco Speri, and the name es