Rondinella

Rondinella is a red grape variety from Veneto in northern Italy and is best known as a blending partner in Valpolicella, Ripasso, Amarone and Recioto. It is rarely the headline grape, but it plays an important supporting role.

Compared with Corvina, Rondinella is generally less aromatic, yet it contributes colour, freshness, red fruit and useful structure. Its berries also dry well, which helps explain its value in the appassimento styles of Valpolicella.

What does Rondinella taste like?

Rondinella usually brings red cherry, redcurrant, dried herbs, light spice and a gentle savoury note. On its own it is often moderate in body and less intensely perfumed than Corvina.

In Valpolicella blends it helps support freshness, colour and balance. In Amarone or Recioto, drying the grapes can add darker fruit, raisin, spice and more concentration, depending on the blend and ageing.

Where does Rondinella come from?

Rondinella is closely tied to Veneto, especially the Valpolicella and Bardolino areas. It is one of the traditional red varieties used alongside Corvina, Corvinone and sometimes Molinara.

Although it may exist outside its classic home, its real identity is firmly Venetian. It is most important in wines where blending and appassimento traditions shape the final style.

Which Rondinella styles are there?

Rondinella appears mainly in dry red blends such as Valpolicella and Bardolino, where it supports bright cherry fruit and drinkability. In Ripasso it contributes to a fuller, more textured style.

It is also important in Amarone della Valpolicella and Recioto della Valpolicella, where dried grapes create richer, more concentrated wines. Varietal Rondinella is uncommon.


What food pairs with Rondinella?

Fresh Valpolicella-style wines with Rondinella pair well with pasta in tomato sauce, pizza, roast chicken, charcuterie, mushrooms and mild cheeses. Their red fruit and acidity suit everyday Italian cooking.

Richer Ripasso and Amarone styles are better with braised beef, game, aged cheeses, risotto with mushrooms, roast lamb and slow-cooked dishes that can match their depth.

Buy Rondinella online

Rondinella may not always appear alone on the label, but it is part of the character behind many Veneto red wines. It helps bring freshness, colour and balance to some of Italy's most recognisable styles.

Explore wines with Rondinella in our range and discover Valpolicella, Ripasso, Amarone and other Veneto reds with cherry fruit and savoury depth.




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