Cesari Mara Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore DOC is a classic Italian red wine from the Veneto region, crafted by the renowned Cesari winery using the traditional Ripasso technique. The blend is composed of 50% Corvina, 30% Corvinone, and 20% Rondinella grapes sourced from the Valpolicella Classica zone. The wine is aged in large oak casks (80%) and tonneaux (20%) for approximately 12 months, lending it depth and structure.

The Ripasso method — often called the "baby Amarone" technique — involves re-fermenting the young Valpolicella wine over the grape skins left from Amarone production. This process imparts greater body, aromatic richness, and aging potential while preserving the freshness of Valpolicella. The result is a wine that bridges the elegance of Valpolicella and the power of Amarone.

On the nose, the Mara Ripasso opens with aromas of ripe cherries, plum, jam, and hints of dried fruit, spice, and maraschino cherry. On the palate it delivers concentrated dark berry flavors — blackberry, blackcurrant, and dried cherry — with notes of cola, cedar, espresso, tobacco, and milk chocolate. The body is medium to full with silky, polished tannins and a long, warm finish.

This wine pairs wonderfully with grilled and roasted red meats, aged cheeses, hearty pasta with red or cream sauces, and pizza. It has received consistent critical acclaim, including 93 points from James Suckling (2017 vintage), 91 points from Wine Advocate, and 89 points from Wine Spectator across multiple vintages.