CorvinaThe elegant heart of Valpolicella and star of Italy's iconic Amarone wine
Corvina is the noble grape of Veneto, Italy, where it has been cultivated since Roman times. This thin-skinned red variety thrives in the hillside vineyards around Verona, forming the backbone of beloved wines like Valpolicella, Bardolino, and the prestigious Amarone della Valpolicella. The grape's name possibly derives from 'corvo' (crow), referring either to its dark color or the birds' fondness for its sweet berries.
What makes Corvina truly special is its versatility and ability to shine in both fresh, everyday wines and complex, age-worthy masterpieces. It's particularly famous for the appassimento method, where grapes are dried for months to concentrate flavors before fermentation. This ancient technique transforms Corvina into the powerful, velvety Amarone and sweet Recioto wines that have captivated wine lovers worldwide.
How to recognize this grape variety?
Corvina offers an enchanting aromatic profile of sour cherry, red currant, and violet, often accompanied by subtle almond and spice notes. On the palate, it delivers bright acidity with moderate tannins and a characteristic bitter-cherry finish that keeps you coming back for more. The texture is silky rather than heavy, with an elegant freshness even in its most concentrated forms.
When vinified as Valpolicella, expect a light to medium-bodied wine perfect with pasta, pizza, and charcuterie. Amarone versions transform into rich, full-bodied powerhouses that pair beautifully with braised meats, aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano, and hearty winter stews. The wine's natural acidity cuts through rich dishes while its fruit character complements both savory and slightly sweet preparations.
Corvina production around the world
Here's the list of the top 2 producers of Corvina worldwide.
ItalyValpolicella, Bardolino, Valpantena
7 476 haArgentinaMendoza
19 haIf you like this grape variety...
Keep reading and discover other grape varieties.
Grape variety fact sheet
Origin
Italy






