Spring is upon us, and indulging in some fine wines seems like a splendid idea. Monte Del Fra, an Italian family winery established in 1958 by the Bonomo family, presents a selection worth exploring. The Bonomo brothers divide responsibilities, one overseeing the vineyards and the other winemaking. Situated in Custoza, near Villafranca di Verona, the estate specializes in Valpolicella, Amarone, and Costoza wines.
Their current lineup comprises five wines—three whites and two reds. Their winemaking ethos adheres to regional tradition, producing quality wines while maintaining reasonable pricing.
Costoza, known for its affordability, offers exceptional value for money. Particularly noteworthy is their Costoza Superiore, deep and multi-layered, truly excellent. Their Poliziano Classico is a delightful classic, while their Ripasso offers a comprehensive palette of flavors and aromas at a modest price point. Together, these wines paint a very pleasing picture of affordable elegance.
Given their reasonable pricing, it's advisable to keep an eye on them on store shelves. Whether you favor Ripasso or enjoy complex whites, Monte Del Fra has offerings that won't disappoint. Even their basic Costoza is quite the bargain. Cheers!
Monte Del Fra, Custoza 2023
A dry white based on Garganega, Trebbiano, Trebbianello, and Cortese grapes from Custoza. Fermented in stainless steel, no aging. Pale yellow color. Aromas of tropical fruits. Light-bodied. 12.5% alcohol by volume.
Price: NIS 70.
Best paired with: sandwiches, pizza, grilled fish, fish in olive oil and tomato.
Reviewer's note: Light, refreshing, very dry, sharp, and nuanced, a very commendable wine for its price.
Value for money: 4.5/5 (excellent).
Monte Del Fra, Valpolicella Classico 2022
A red wine based on Corvina, Corvinone, and Rondinella grapes from Valpolicella Classico, Italy. Aged for about five months in stainless steel. No oak. Deep garnet color. Aromas of red fruits. Medium-bodied. 12.5% alcohol by volume.
Price: NIS 75.
Best paired with: pizza, pasta, chicken.
Reviewer's note: Abundant fruit, plenty of spices, pleasant acidity. If it were French, it would be called a "bistro wine." A very good and versatile wine, even with ice.
Value for money: 3.5/5 (good).
Monte Del Fra, Soave Classico 2022
A dry white based on Garganega grapes from Soave Classico. About five months aging in stainless steel. Pale yellow color. Aromas of white fruits and flowers. Light to medium-bodied. 12.55% alcohol by volume.
Price: NIS 85.
Best paired with: seafood starters, seafood in olive oil.
Reviewer's note: Dry, mineral, and acidic tones define this wine. Pleasant, rounded, and refined fruit. An excellent food wine, pairs well with any seafood dish, including shellfish.
Value for money: 3.5/5 (quite good).
Monte Del Fra, Cal De Magro, Custoza Superiorre 2021
A dry white based on Garganega, Tuscan Trebbiano, Cortese, and Incrocio Manzoni grapes from 30-year-old vineyards in Custoza. Aged in stainless steel on lees for several months and further bottle aged. Golden color. Aromas of white fruits, citrus, and herbs. Light to medium-bodied. 13% alcohol by volume.
Price: NIS 100.
Best paired with: fish, seafood, shellfish, white meats.
Reviewer's note: Excellent fruit, pronounced yet balanced acidity, significant complexity, with a pronounced oak presence. A sophisticated wine at this price point.
Value for money: 4/5 (very good).
Monte Del Fra, Ripasso De La Valpolicella 2019
A red wine based on Corvina, Corvinone, and Rondinella grapes from Valpolicella Classico. Ripasso method used—after alcoholic fermentation, a second fermentation with dried grape skins from Amarone and Valpolicella of the previous vintage. Aged for a total of 20 months in oak barrels. Deep ruby red color. Aromas of red and black fruits, spices, tobacco, and coffee. Full-bodied. 16% alcohol by volume.
Price: NIS 110.
Best paired with: meat-based dishes, lamb, chocolate, mature cheeses.
Reviewer's note: A classic Ripasso, intense and robust, full of fruit, rich in oak, high alcohol content, bursting with spices, and a touch of sweetness. A wine for contemplation, suitable for meat dishes, cheeses, and chocolate alike. Offers great value for money.
Value for money: 4/5 (very good compared to counterparts).