Amarone della Valpolicella, or simply Amarone, is one of Italy’s most prestigious red wines. It has deep flavors, velvety texture, and unique production process. Amarone stands as a symbol of luxury in the wine world. But what makes this wine so special? In this guide, we’ll explore its origins, production, taste profile, food pairings, and why it deserves a place in your exquisite collection.
The Origins of Amarone Wine
A Rich History in Valpolicella
Amarone originates from Valpolicella, a renowned wine-producing region in Veneto, Northern Italy. The area has been cultivating grapes since Roman times, and Amarone itself is a result of an ancient winemaking method known as appassimento. As for Veneto, it is famous worldwide for producing some of the finest sparkling wines, Prosecco.
Accidents are always recurring in history to provide marvelous creations. Legend has it that Amarone was discovered by accident. A winemaker left a batch of Recioto (a sweet red wine) to ferment too long, resulting in a dry yet incredibly powerful wine. This “happy accident” gave birth to the Amarone we know today.
The Unique Amarone Production Process
What sets Amarone apart from other red wines is its meticulous production method. Are you ready to explore it?
Appassimento: The Drying Process
Unlike traditional red wines, which are usually made of freshly collected red or black grape varieties, Amarone is made from grapes that are dried for 3 to 4 months after harvesting. The drying process, known as appassimento, as stated earlier, takes place in ventilated rooms that help in the drying effects for the grapes. These berries lose up to 40% of their water content. This process concentrates the sugars and flavors, giving Amarone its signature richness and depth. Can you imagine how velvety it would become afterwords!
Fermentation & Aging
Once dried, the grapes are fermented slowly over several months, allowing the complex flavors to develop. The process of fermentation is when the yeast, a microscopic organism, transforms the sugar into alcohol. After fermentation, Amarone is aged in oak barrels from 2 to 6 years, depending on the producer. This long aging process enhances the wine’s structure and complexity, resulting in a bold yet elegant profile. Moreover, distinctive aromas develop in the wine as well as a specific texture will form.
The Grape Varieties Behind Amarone, the Real Heroes
Amarone is crafted from a blend of indigenous Italian grape varieties, let’s explore them shall we?
Corvina – The backbone of Amarone, providing elegance and bright cherry flavors.
Rondinella – Adds floral and herbal notes.
Molinara (less common today) – Contributes acidity and freshness.
Corvinone – Brings deeper color and tannic structure.
The Taste Profile of Amarone Wine
Amarone is known for its full-bodied and intensely flavored profile. Here’s what you can expect:
Aroma & Flavor Notes
Fruits: Dark cherry, plum, blackberry, fig.
Spices: Cinnamon, black pepper, licorice.
Earthy Notes: Tobacco, leather, dark chocolate.
Aging Influence: Vanilla, toasted oak, coffee.
With an alcohol content ranging from 15% to 17%, Amarone delivers a warming and velvety mouthfeel with balanced acidity and tannins.
Best Food Pairings for Amarone
Due to its bold flavors and high alcohol content, Amarone pairs best with rich, hearty dishes. Here are some of the best pairings:
Meat & Game
Braised beef
Lamb shank
Venison
Wild boar
Aged Cheeses
Parmigiano-Reggiano
Gorgonzola
Pecorino
Rich Pasta Dishes
Truffle pasta
Mushroom risotto
Ragu-based pasta (like pappardelle with wild boar sauce)
How to Serve and Store Amarone
To fully enjoy Amarone, follow these serving and storage tips:
Serving Tips
Decanting: Amarone should be decanted for at least 1-2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to open up.
Glassware: Use a large Bordeaux-style glass to enhance its aromas.
Serving Temperature: Serve at 16-18°C (60-64°F) for optimal enjoyment
Storage Recommendations
Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place.
Ideal storage temperature: 12-15°C (53-59°F).
Amarone can age beautifully for 10-20 years or more, depending on the vintage and producer.
Best Amarone Wines to Try
If you’re looking to experience the best Amarone has to offer, here are some top-rated producers:
Quintarelli Giuseppe Amarone della Valpolicella Classico – Iconic and luxurious.
Dal Forno Romano Amarone della Valpolicella – Bold and highly structured.
Allegrini Amarone della Valpolicella – Elegant and well-balanced.
Tommasi Amarone della Valpolicella Classico – Rich and smooth.
Masi Costasera Amarone della Valpolicella – Classic and widely available
Amarone della Valpolicella is more than just a wine; it’s an experience. With its rich history, unique production process, and intense flavors, it stands as a masterpiece of Italian winemaking. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or a curious beginner, Amarone is a must-try for anyone seeking depth, complexity, and indulgence in a glass.
So, next time you’re looking for a bold, luxurious red wine, reach for an Amarone—you won’t be disappointed. Cheers!
