15% ABV
Valpolicella (75% Corvina, 20% Rondinella, 5% Rossignola)
ITALY (Verona, Veneto)
2017

The grapes to be used in the Amarone production are harvested 1-2 weeks earlier than those for the Valpolicella wine. During the grape harvesting, only perfectly unblemished and dry clusters are selected and placed in shallow cases in single layers. They are left to dry in selected well-aired locations, called “fruittai”, to avoid being attacked by mould. The drying process lasts until the end of January. During these months the bunches are constantly checked and discarded if damaged. At the end of the drying period, the grapes lose 30-40% of their weight and their concentration of sugar, an indispensable element during the following fermentation stage to ensure a noteworthy alcoholic level (around 15%), is increased. Maceration is carried out on contact with the skins for a period of 20-30 days. During fermentation, given the high alcoholic level that is produced, the yeasts must be strictly selected and be resistant both to alcohol and to cold (the Amarone fermentation period is between January and February). After drawing off the lees, the product is placed in steel vats in order to complete malolactic fermentation in the following months. At this point, the maturation process, lasting three years with ageing 12 months in large barrels (Slavonian oak) and 30% in small casks, barriques and tonneaux (French oak), will take place. Prior to the release of the product, the wine is left to mature for at least 6-8 months in the bottles.

Aromas of ripe fruit, fruit preserve and cherry are immediately perceived on first olfactory examination. Particularly striking is the incredible long length that lingers on the palate, when the wine displays all its strength through a warm an elegant body.