The ‘first flower’ is the youngest red wine made at Quintarelli, a blend of 50% Corvina and Corvinone, 50% Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc; despite being ‘half Bordeaux’, Primofiore is unmistakeably rooted in Valpolicella. The Cabernet grapes are partially dried on straw matting after picking, whereas the Corvina and Corvinone are freshly pressed. While 'Primofiore' doesn’t meet the lofty aging standards of the estate's 'Valpolicella', it would be hard to argue that this didn’t exceed expectations nonetheless – just think of it as an opportunity to drink a younger Quintarelli, one not made with the ripasso technique. Wonderfully fresh and vibrant, showing rosy florals, wild strawberries, green peppercorns and a touch of sweet spice. Silky in texture, with undertones of savory herbs upfront, before further evolving to display tart wild berries with a subtle twang of sour citrus, which frames the experience nicely. The long, perfumed finale resonates with hints of violets and blue fruit.