Discovering Amarone
Vigna Garzon Amarone della Valpolicella, Pieropan: The perfect Sunday treat!
I’m a real Amarone fan. Yet I’ve only recently embarked on a journey through the delicious and delightful world of Amarone wine. However, whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or, like me, just beginning to explore the magic of the Italian wines, Amarone is sure to captivate your senses with its rich flavours and fascinating history.
What Makes Amarone Wine So Special?
Amarone della Valpolicella, often simply called Amarone, is a superstar in the wine world. It hails from the beautiful Veneto region in northeastern Italy and is made using a unique process that sets it apart from other wines: grape magic!
Amarone is made from Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara grapes which are partially dried before fermentation. This drying process, called appassimento, concentrates the sugars and flavours, giving Amarone its signature richness. Flavour-wise, think dried fruits like raisins and figs, a dash of dark chocolate, a sprinkle of coffee, and a hint of spice. Wow!
Legend has it that Amarone was born by accident. In the old days, winemakers in Valpolicella were known for making Recioto, a sweet red wine. One day, a barrel of Recioto was left to ferment a bit too long, and voila! A dry, bold wine emerged, and Amarone was born. Sometimes, happy accidents make the best stories (and the best wines!)
What to Expect
Tasting Amarone is like going on a flavour adventure. On the nose, aromas of dried cherries, figs, chocolate, and a touch of spice. Take different types of breath and let it all in. On the pallette, flavours of black cherry, plum, vanilla, and a whisper of tobacco. It’s dry, velvety, and addictively delicious! Amarone has a long, lingering finish, so sip slowly and savour every moment.
Must-Try Amarone Wines
Ready to try some Amarone magic? Here are a few bottles that come highly recommended:
Masi Costasera Amarone Classico: A beautiful balance of ripe fruit and spice. Perfect for a special occasion. £37.99 at Waitrose.
`Vigna Garzon` Amarone della Valpolicella, Pieropan: intense aromas and flavors of dried dark fruits, such as raisins and figs, along with notes of chocolate, tobacco, and a robust structure. £69.44 at 3 Wines.
Allegrini Amarone della Valpolicella Classico: Critics love it, and so will you. Dark berries and chocolate in every sip. £67.95 at Master of Malt.
Tommasi Amarone della Valpolicella Classico: Elegant and deep, with notes of cherry, plum, and sweet spices. A true delight. £44.99 at Waitrose.
Food and Amarone
Pairing food with Amarone is a delicious challenge. Here are some fun ideas:
Meat Feast: Think grilled steak, braised beef, or lamb. The bold flavors of the meat complement the richness of the wine.
Game On: Game meats like venison or wild boar are a match made in heaven.
Cheese Please: Aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino bring out the best fruity flavours in Amarone.
Pasta Party: Rich pasta dishes with bold sauces, like a hearty ragù or mushroom risotto, are perfect partners.
While Amarone is delicious when young, it gets even better with age. Many bottles can develop more complexity over 10-15 years. Perhaps consider buying a case or 2 and storing these for a few years t see how the wine ages.
There you have it - an exciting and delicious wine. Whether you’re enjoying a glass with friends or pairing it with a fantastic meal, Amarone is sure to bring joy and flavour to your life.
Got a favourite Amarone story or bottle? Share it in the comments below. Salute! 🍷