The Ultimate Guide to Amarone della Valpolicella: A Legendary Italian Wine

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of the Veneto region of Italy, the enchanting Valpolicella valley is renowned for producing one of the world's most celebrated wines—Amarone della Valpolicella. This exceptional wine boasts a rich history, distinctive characteristics, and an unparalleled reputation among wine connoisseurs.

A Journey Through History

The origins of Amarone date back to the 16th century when grapes were left to dry on straw mats for an extended period, concentrating their sugars and flavors. Over time, this technique evolved into the "Appassimento" method, which is still employed today.

In 1953, the name "Amarone" was officially recognized, distinguishing these wines from their sweeter counterparts, Recioto della Valpolicella. Amarone quickly gained international acclaim and has since become synonymous with Italian winemaking excellence.

Characteristics of Amarone

1. Grapes and Soil:

• Predominantly made from Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara grapes
• Grown on mineral-rich, calcareous soils with excellent drainage

2. Appassimento Method:

• Grapes are dried for approximately 120 days, losing up to 40% of their weight
• This process concentrates sugars, tannins, and flavors

3. Fermentation and Aging:

• Fermented with indigenous yeasts in large oak barrels or stainless steel tanks
• Aged for a minimum of 24 months in oak barrels, imparting notes of vanilla, spice, and dried fruit
• Some Amarones are aged for even longer, up to 10 years or more

4. Sensory Profile:

• Deep garnet or ruby-red color
• Intense aromas of dried cherries, plums, raisins, and spice
• Full-bodied with rich, velvety tannins
• Complex flavors of dried fruit, chocolate, tobacco, and roasted coffee
• High alcohol content (typically 15-16%)

Production and Rankings

In 2021, Valpolicella produced approximately 12,000,000 bottles of Amarone, representing 10% of the region's total wine production.

The Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG system classifies wines into three categories based on their aging period:

• Amarone della Valpolicella (minimum 24 months aging)
• Amarone della Valpolicella Riserva (minimum 48 months aging)
• Amarone della Valpolicella Gran Selezione (minimum 60 months aging, produced from superior vineyards)

The Economics of Amarone

According to the Consorzio Tutela Vini Valpolicella, the average price of a bottle of Amarone in 2022 was €40. Premium and Riserva wines can command prices of up to €100 or more.

The global demand for Amarone has been steadily increasing, with exports accounting for approximately 90% of the total production. The United States is the largest export market for Amarone, followed by Germany, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland.

Food Pairings for Amarone

The rich and complex flavors of Amarone make it an excellent companion for a wide range of dishes, including:

• Braised meats, such as short ribs or brisket
• Grilled or roasted lamb
• Aged cheeses, such as Parmigiano-Reggiano or Asiago
• Chocolate or dark fruit desserts

The Future of Amarone

Amarone della Valpolicella continues to evolve, with producers experimenting with different grape varieties, fermentation techniques, and aging periods. The use of modern technology has also led to advancements in winemaking, ensuring the consistent quality and excellence of Amarone.

Interesting Stories About Amarone

1. The Wine That Almost Never Was:

In the early 20th century, Amarone was on the verge of extinction. The high cost of production and the long aging period made it an unprofitable venture for many winemakers. However, a group of dedicated producers refused to let this iconic wine die out.

2. The Rarest Amarone:

In 2016, the Consorzio Tutela Vini Valpolicella released a limited edition of Amarone called "Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 2010 Gran Selezione Riserva della Valpolicella Classica." Only 1,000 bottles were produced, making it one of the rarest and most sought-after Amarone wines ever made.

3. The World's Most Expensive Amarone:

In 2019, a bottle of Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 1999 Riserva from the famed Dal Forno winery sold at auction for a record-breaking $12,500. This extraordinary wine is a testament to the unparalleled quality and value of Amarone.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Drinking Amarone too young: Amarone is a wine that benefits from aging. Allow it to cellar for at least 5-10 years to reach its full potential.
• Serving Amarone too cold: Amarone should be served at a temperature of 65-70°F (18-21°C) to fully appreciate its rich flavors and aromas.
• Pairing Amarone with light or simple dishes: Amarone is a full-bodied wine that requires robust dishes to complement its intensity.
• Assuming all Amarones are created equal: There is a great deal of variability among Amarone wines, depending on the producer, vintage, and vineyard. Explore different producers and vintages to find one that suits your taste.

Call to Action

Indulge in the exceptional flavors and rich history of Amarone della Valpolicella. Explore the enchanting Valpolicella valley, visit the renowned wineries, and savor the legendary taste of this Italian masterpiece.

Tables

Table 1: Amarone Production Statistics

Table 2: Amarone Classification and Aging

Table 3: Key Figures for Amarone