Amarone

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Amarone wine has become a favorite among wine enthusiasts worldwide. This renowned Italian wine type originates from the Valpolicella region in the northern part of Italy and has gained significant popularity. The unique production method involving grape drying gives Amarone wine its distinctive concentration and depth. These wines are high in alcohol and pair well with robust meat dishes, offering a true delight for wine lovers seeking powerful wine experiences.

The History Behind Amarone Wine

The history of Amarone wine dates back to the 18th century. Wine producers in Valpolicella discovered by accident that allowing grapes to dry for a longer period before pressing resulted in a richer flavor and higher alcohol content in the wine. This discovery led to the development of the production method for Amarone wine, known as "Appassimento."

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The Unique Production of Amarone Wine

Amarone wine is unique due to the special production method used to create it. A key factor is the drying of the grapes before fermentation, which gives the wine its characteristic concentration and intensity.

Grape Varieties Used for Making Amarone Wine

The main grape varieties used to produce Amarone wine are Corvina, Corvinone, and Rondinella. These grape varieties have thick skins and are resistant to drying. They contribute different aromas and structures to the final wine.

Drying of the Grapes

After harvesting, the grapes selected for Amarone production are laid out on special bamboo mats or wooden crates. They dry for 3-4 months, resulting in a reduction of water content and a concentration of sugar, acid, and flavor compounds. This process, known as "appassimento," is essential for creating the character of Amarone wine.

Fermentation

After the drying process, the grapes are pressed, and the must (grape juice) ferments in large oak barrels or stainless steel tanks. Fermentation usually lasts for several weeks, and the high sugar concentration in the must results in a high alcohol content in the finished wine.

Maturation and Aging

After fermentation, the wine matures in oak barrels for at least two years. The extended maturation contributes to the wine's complexity and softens the tannins. Some producers choose to let their Amarone wine age even longer to achieve even greater depth.

7 Well Known Producers of Amarone Wine

There are many skilled producers of Amarone wine, but here we will take a closer look at seven of the most exclusive producers who stand out for their expertise and quality wines.

• Masi Agricola

  Masi Agricola is one of the oldest and most respected producers of Amarone wine. Their history dates back to 1772, and the family has had a significant influence in defining the Amarone style over generations. Masi Agricola employs traditional production methods, including the appassimento method, where grapes are dried before fermentation to concentrate the flavors. The result is wines with impressive complexity and depth. Masi Agricola's Amarone wine is known for its rich fruitiness, spicy notes, and soft tannins.

• Tommasi Viticoltori

  Tommasi Viticoltori is another prominent producer that has been family owned for over four generations. Their passion for winemaking and commitment to preserving the traditions of the Valpolicella region have made them a significant player on the Amarone scene. Tommasi Viticoltori carefully selects grapes and uses modern techniques to produce Amarone wines of the highest quality. Their Amarone wine is known for its richness, elegance, and impressive structure.

• Allegrini

  Allegrini is a reputable name in Valpolicella. The family is recognized for their innovative approach to winemaking, combining traditional methods with modern techniques to express the unique character of the Valpolicella region. Allegrini's wine is characterized by its depth, complexity, and harmonious balance. The wine has great richness and fruit character, soft tannins, and a lingering finish.

• Zenato

  Zenato is another outstanding producer of Amarone wine, known for their dedication to quality and love for the land. The family has a long tradition in winemaking and has successfully combined wisdom from the past with modern technology. Zenato's wine is known for its structure, intensity, and complexity. The wines feature a rich array of aromas and flavors, ranging from dark fruits and spices to subtle earthy undertones.

• Speri Viticoltori

  Speri Viticoltori is a family owned company dedicated to winemaking for over 140 years. They have a strong connection to their land and focus on sustainable practices with great respect for nature. Speri Viticoltori's Amarone wine is characterized by its depth, elegance, and finesse. The wine expresses the unique terroir of the Valpolicella region and boasts an impressive complexity of flavors, including ripe fruits, spices, and delicate herbal nuances.

• Bertani

  Bertani is a recognized producer of Amarone wine with a long history and exceptional expertise. Founded in 1857, the winery has been dedicated to producing wines of the highest quality. Bertani has achieved international recognition and is known for their traditional approach to winemaking and their commitment to preserving the wine's authentic character.

• Dal Forno

  Dal Forno is a renowned and highly respected producer of Amarone wine, achieving legendary status in the world of wine. Founded by Romano Dal Forno, who is known as a master of winemaking and a pioneer in the Amarone style.

Their wines are known for being full-bodied, concentrated, and remarkably deep. They offer a wealth of flavors, ranging from ripe berries and plums to spices and delicate undertones of chocolate and tobacco. Dal Forno's wines also have remarkable structure and a silky texture, providing Amarone wine with a pleasant and exceptionally long finish.

These seven producers represent the best in this part of the wine world and are often featured in auctions here on ShareWine. Regardless of which producer you choose to explore, you can be sure to experience authentic Amarone wine in its most refined form.

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