In 1977, Tommaso Bussola, a young passionate man with a stubborn and inquisitive personality, decided to start working in the small winery owned by his uncle Giuseppe. At the beginning of his adventure, he faithfully followed the Valpolicella Classica tradition, personally overseeing production under the name of ‘BG’ at the time. The length of time the wines were kept in barrels was short and predetermined and Tommaso felt the need to experiment with something different.
In 1983, he was guided by instinct in his first winemaking venture, deciding to personally oversee the selection of grapes to be used for Amarone and Recioto. The road was mapped out, and his discerning personality was the secret of that breakthrough year in production, which came when the new wine cellar was built in late 1992 and early 1993. With the introduction of the first barriques, his wines were able to complete their fermentation with a constantly improving quality process. The label was marked with a new name, ‘TB’, which identified an innovative style synonymous with the highest quality, which is now also internationally acknowledged.
With his skills and passion, Tommaso involved his wife Daniela, who joined him in this adventure in 1995, deciding to permanently enter the company. Now, after his sons Paolo and Giuseppe joined in 2005, the company is one of the family-run wineries in the Valpolicella Classica area that proudly contributes to upholding the values and culture of the territory.
The 2019 Tommaso Bussola Ca' del Laito Valpolicella Superiore Ripasso is a rich and layered wine from Veneto, Italy, offering the characteristic depth and complexity of Ripasso. Known as the "baby Amarone," this Ripasso is produced by re-fermenting Valpolicella wine on the dried grape skins used in Amarone production, adding richness and depth. This expression by Tommaso Bussola showcases intense fruit, savory spice, and velvety tannins, making it a beautifully balanced wine. The nose is intense and complex, with ripe aromas of black cherry, dried plum, and fig, layered with hints of raisin from the Ripasso process. Secondary notes of leather, dried herbs, and tobacco mingle with nuances of sweet spices like clove and cinnamon, adding an earthy and savory dimension. Full-bodied and lush, with a velvety texture and well-integrated tannins. The palate showcases flavors of dark cherry, blackberry, and dried fruits, with a rich undercurrent of mocha, dark chocolate, and spice from oak aging. The Ripasso method gives the wine an added depth and slight raisined character, balanced by a fresh acidity that enlivens the fruit and keeps the wine from feeling overly heavy. Long and warming, with lingering notes of dark fruit, spice, and a touch of bitter chocolate, leaving a memorable impression that reflects the wine’s complexity and richness.
