Corvina is widely grown on the Veneto shore of Lake Garda and the hills
of Valpolicella to the north and north-east of Verona. Sometimes known
as Corvina Veronese, it is blended with Rondinella
and Molinara to produce Valpolicella and Bardolino. It can
be a tricky grape to cultivate, as it ripens late and is prone to rot if
affected by rains at harvest time. It is a high-yielding grape and quality is
very dependent on keeping yields low.
Corvina-based red wines can range in style from a light, cherryish red to the
rich, port-like Recioto and Amarone Valpolicellas. Most
Valpolicella from the plains is pale and insipid, and bears little comparison
with Valpolicella Classico from the hills. Some producers such as
Allegrini are now producing very high quality 100% Corvina wines.