Benazzoli Amarone della Valpolicella 2016

Description

A blend of Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella and Molinara grapes from the Sant’Ambroglia di Valpolicella vineyards of the Benazzoli family, this traditional Amarone is produced by first drying the grapes in a loft for 3 months before a slow fermentation over a further month. The wine is then put into oak barrels for three years for maturing.

A full bodied wine of immense concentration, depth and elegance, opaque dark red heading towards inky black in colour. The nose is surprisingly fresh and elegant, cherry jam, caramelized blackberries, a potpourri of rose petals and crushed violets, and savoury spice notes of balsamic, cedar, cloves, cinnamon and star anise completing the bouquet. On the palate it is warm and powerful but beautifully balanced, alcoholised dried fruits reminiscent of brandy plums tempered by a juicy freshness with red berry and floral notes. The finish is exquisite, long and unwinding, with all those spice notes marrying together as in a fruitcake or black forest gateau.

Amarone is a full-bodied wine that can support very elaborate and rich dishes such as a stracotto, a braised meat or a long-aged cheese board. Dark chocolate or heavy chocolate desserts are also a highly recommended experience!