The grape that supports Corvina in Valpolicella blends. Modest in aroma and flavour on its own, its resistance to disease and to drying makes consistent Amarone production possible. It contributes colour and gentle fruit to the blend.
The name comes from rondine, Italian for swallow, said to reflect a skin colour recalling the bird's plumage. Grown around Verona since the 19th century, its ease of cultivation established it as Corvina's partner. It is very rarely bottled on its own.
It never takes the lead, yet the consistency of Valpolicella and Amarone rests on it. Understanding what the quiet partner in a blend actually does changes how you read a label.