Secondo Marco, Valpolicella Classico Ripasso DOC

About Secondo Marco

Secondo Marco is a family-owned wine estate located in the heart of the Valpolicella Classica region in Veneto, Italy. Founded by Marco Speri in 2008, the estate draws on generations of winemaking experience, as Marco is a member of the historic Speri family, one of Valpolicella’s most respected wine dynasties. The name “Secondo Marco” reflects both a return to tradition and a personal vision for the future, as “Secondo” means “according to” in Italian, signifying Marco’s unique interpretation of the region’s classic wines.

The estate covers approximately 15 hectares of vineyards, situated primarily in the Fumane valley, an area celebrated for its ideal microclimate and limestone-rich soils. These conditions provide an optimal environment for cultivating indigenous grape varieties such as Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, and Molinara. Secondo Marco’s vineyards are managed with a focus on sustainability and respect for the land. Marco employs organic farming principles, avoiding chemical herbicides and pesticides while emphasizing the importance of biodiversity and soil health.

Secondo Marco’s philosophy centers on producing wines that authentically express the terroir of Valpolicella. In the cellar, Marco combines traditional techniques with modern precision. Grapes are harvested by hand and carefully selected to ensure only the best fruit is used. For the production of Amarone and Recioto, the grapes undergo the traditional appassimento process, where they are dried on racks in well-ventilated rooms over several months, concentrating their flavors and sugars. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, and aging is carried out in large Slavonian oak casks, which impart subtle structure without overwhelming the fruit character.

The estate’s portfolio includes Valpolicella Classico, Valpolicella Ripasso, Amarone della Valpolicella, and Recioto della Valpolicella. Each wine reflects a balance of elegance, freshness, and complexity, hallmarks of Marco’s style. The Valpolicella Classico is vibrant and aromatic, with red cherry and floral notes, while the Ripasso shows greater depth and richness from its secondary fermentation on Amarone lees. The Amarone is characterized by its refined power, with layers of dark fruit, spice, and a persistent finish, and the Recioto offers luscious sweetness balanced by vibrant acidity.

Marco Speri’s commitment to quality and authenticity has earned Secondo Marco a loyal following among wine enthusiasts and critics. The estate’s limited production allows for meticulous attention to detail at every stage, from vineyard management to bottling. Visitors to the winery are welcomed into a beautifully restored farmhouse, where they can experience guided tastings and learn about the nuances of Valpolicella’s winemaking traditions.

Secondo Marco stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Valpolicella’s great winemaking families, while also embodying a forward-thinking approach rooted in respect for nature and tradition. Through thoughtful vineyard practices, careful vinification, and an unwavering dedication to expressing the unique character of their land, Secondo Marco continues to make a significant mark on the landscape of Italian wine.