Wines from Valpolicella, Italy becoming popular in B.C.: columnist

On The Coast Master of Wine Barbara Philip says B.C. wine drinkers are finding the products of one Italian region to be rather bella.

She says wines from the Valpolicella region are some of the most popular in B.C. right now, and there's quite a bit of variety in those wines.

She says there are juicy, cherry-scented light wines to powerful Amarones, with the Ripasso style (made from refermenting Valpolicella on the skins and seeds of Amarone wine) striking a chord with wine lovers who want something in between the two.

"The famous region of Valpolicella offers a red wine for just about any occasion, from those with light body and fresh red fruits to the dried grape flavours and powerful structure of Amarone," Philip told On The Coast guest host Gloria Macarenko.

Here are Philip's picks for greatValpolicella wines.

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Masi. Valpolicella Classico. Bonacosta. Italy. 2014. $13.49

"Straightforward and juicy with sour cherry and spice, this is a red wine that is best served slightly chilled. Do not hesitate to have it with grilled wild salmon."

Musella. Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso. Italy. 2012. $28.99

"Even though this wine is refermented on the skins of the Amarone wine to increase its power, winemaker Maddelena Pasqua strives for balance and elegance. Expect floral notes, ripe cherry and some anise flavour."

Tedeschi Amarone. Italy. 2011. $48.99

"I've always loved the Tedeschi Amarone for the exotic herbal and floral notes that balance the intense dried cherry and plum. Pair with a creamy piece of Gorgonzola."

Allegrini Amarone Classico. Italy. 2010. $93.99

"Superstar Marilisa Allegrini oversees this famous estate and makes one of the world's most consistently awarded wines. There are layers of complexity here balanced by a structure that will allow decades of aging. Save for a special occasion!"

With files from CBC Radio One's On The Coast