Amarone

Amarone, also known as Amarone della Valpolicella, is one of Italy's most distinguished red wines. With a history steeped in tradition and an intricate and unique production process, it stands out as a luxurious and powerful wine that has captivated wine enthusiasts worldwide. This deep dive into Amarone will explore its origins, production process, and why it remains a symbol of excellence in Italian winemaking.

The Origins of Amarone

The history of Amarone is deeply rooted in the Valpolicella region of Veneto, Italy. This region, known for its rolling hills and temperate climate, has produced wine for centuries. Amarone's story begins with Recioto, a sweet wine made from partially dried grapes. The origins of Amarone are often attributed to a happy accident in which a batch of Recioto fermented for too long, resulting in a dry wine with a higher alcohol content. This unintentional creation led to the birth of Amarone, a wine that has since grown in fame and reputation.

Amarone was officially recognized as a distinct wine in the mid-20th century, but it wasn’t until 2010 that it was awarded the prestigious DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) status. This designation ensures that Amarone meets strict production standards, further cementing its place as one of Italy's finest wines.

The Grapes for Amarone

Amarone is primarily made from a blend of three grape varieties: Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara. Corvina, which makes up 40-70% of the blend, is the backbone of Amarone, contributing to its rich cherry flavors and the potential for long aging. Rondinella, comprising 5-30%, adds floral notes and structure to the wine, while Molinara, used in smaller quantities (5-25%), brings acidity and freshness, balancing the richness of the other grapes.

The 2010 DOCG regulations introduced more flexibility in Amarone's production, allowing winemakers to incorporate other grape varieties. Up to 10% of other native grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot can be used, as well as up to 15% of non-native grapes like Syrah. However, there is a restriction that no more than 10% of a single additional grape variety, whether native or non-native, can be added to the blend. This flexibility allows winemakers to experiment while maintaining the traditional character of Amarone.

The Appassimento Process: A Key to Amarone’s Unique Flavor

What truly sets Amarone apart from other wines is its unique production process, known as "appassimento" or "passito." After the grapes are harvested in September or October, they are laid out to dry on straw mats or in well-ventilated drying rooms for 90 to 120 days. This drying process concentrates the sugars and flavors in the grapes, resulting in raisin-like grapes that are full of intense flavor and high sugar content.

The appassimento process is crucial to Amarone's distinct flavor profile. As the grapes dry, they lose about 30-40% of their weight, primarily water, which intensifies the concentration of sugars and flavors. This process not only affects the sweetness and richness of the wine but also its alcohol content, which is typically higher than other red wines, usually around 15-16%.

After the drying process, the grapes are gently pressed, and fermentation begins. Unlike Recioto, Amarone is fermented to dryness, meaning all the sugars are converted into alcohol. This results in a powerful, full-bodied wine with a complex flavor profile. The wine is then aged in oak barrels, typically Croatian or Slovenian oak, for 24 to 48 months, although some producers may age it longer to develop even more depth and complexity. After barrel aging, Amarone is bottled and may be further aged for an additional 6 to 12 months before being released to the market.

The Evolution of Amarone Production

While Amarone has a rich tradition, its production has seen significant changes over the years. One of the most notable changes has been the dramatic increase in production volumes. Between 1997 and 2013, the production of Amarone wines expanded from 11,250 hectoliters to a staggering 97,500 hectoliters, representing an 88.5% increase. This rapid expansion has raised concerns among wine enthusiasts and producers alike about the potential impact on the quality and authenticity of Amarone wines.

To address these concerns, the wine producers' consortium implemented measures to slow down this rapid growth and preserve the traditional quality of Amarone. One such measure is the limitation on the amount of grapes that can be dried. According to the consortium's rules, producers may only dry a maximum of 50% of their harvested grapes. This is a significant reduction from the 1970s when only about 5% of the harvested grapes were dried. These restrictions aim to maintain the high standards of Amarone production and ensure that the wine retains its distinctive character and quality.

The Flavor Profile of Amarone

Amarone is renowned for its deep, dark color and complex flavor profile. On the nose, Amarone typically exhibits aromas of dried fruits, such as figs, raisins, and cherries, often accompanied by notes of chocolate, tobacco, and spices. These aromas are a direct result of the appassimento process, which concentrates the flavors and sugars in the grapes.

On the palate, Amarone is full-bodied with a velvety texture. The flavors are intense and layered, offering a rich combination of black cherry, plum, licorice, and hints of earthiness. The wine's high alcohol content is balanced by its rich fruit flavors and well-integrated tannins, making it both powerful and elegant. The subtle bitterness that lingers on the finish adds to Amarone's complexity and makes it a truly unique wine.

Amarone's aging potential is another aspect that sets it apart. Many Amarone wines can be aged for 10 to 15 years, with some of the best examples capable of maturing for up to 30 years. As Amarone ages, it develops even more complexity, with the fruit flavors becoming more concentrated and the tannins softening to create a smoother, more refined wine.

Amarone’s Best Years and Producers

Amarone's quality can vary from year to year, depending on the growing conditions. Some of the best vintages for Amarone include 1983, 1988, 1990, 1995, 1997, 1998, 2009, 2016, 2018, and 2019. These years are known for producing wines with exceptional balance, complexity, and aging potential. Collectors and enthusiasts often seek out Amarone wines from these vintages, as they are considered some of the finest examples of the style.

Several producers are renowned for their exceptional Amarone wines. Dal Forno Romano, Tommasi Viticoltori, and Zenato are among the most respected names in the industry, known for their dedication to quality and tradition. These producers consistently create Amarone wines that are highly regarded for their richness, complexity, and aging potential.

Amarone Classico: A Nod to Tradition

Amarone wines can be labeled as "Amarone Classico" if they come from the central part of the Valpolicella appellation. This area includes the municipalities of Fumane, Marano di Valpolicella, Negrar, San Pietro in Cariano, and Sant'Ambrogio di Valpolicella. These regions are considered the birthplace of Amarone, where the tradition of producing this unique wine began.

Amarone Classico wines are often seen as a more traditional expression of the style, with a focus on maintaining the classic characteristics of the region. These wines tend to be more concentrated and complex, with a greater emphasis on the traditional grape varieties and the appassimento process. For those looking to experience the true essence of Amarone, Amarone Classico is an excellent choice.

Pairing Amarone with Food

Amarone's bold flavors and high alcohol content make it an ideal wine for pairing with rich, hearty dishes. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats, game, and aged cheeses, as the wine's intensity and tannins complement the richness of these foods. Dishes featuring truffles or mushrooms also make an excellent match, as their earthy flavors enhance the wine's complexity.

For a truly decadent experience, try pairing Amarone with dark chocolate or a rich dessert. The wine's sweetness and subtle bitterness balance the chocolate's richness, creating a harmonious and indulgent pairing that is sure to impress.

Amarone is also an excellent wine to enjoy on its own. Its complexity and depth make it a perfect wine for sipping and savoring, allowing you to fully appreciate the nuances and layers of flavor that develop with each sip.

Amarone: A Wine Worth Collecting

Amarone is more than just a wine; it is a testament to the art of winemaking and the dedication of the producers in the Valpolicella region. Its unique production process, rich flavors, and aging potential make it a standout choice for wine collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Whether you're new to Amarone or a seasoned aficionado, this wine is sure to impress with its complexity, depth, and elegance. The best Amarone wines are those that reflect the traditional methods and craftsmanship that have been passed down through generations of winemakers. By choosing Amarone, you are not only enjoying a luxurious wine but also supporting the preservation of an important part of Italy's winemaking heritage.

Amarone's future is a topic of much discussion in the wine world. As production continues to expand, there are concerns about maintaining the quality and authenticity of this iconic wine. However, with the measures being implemented by the wine producers' consortium, there is hope that the tradition and excellence of Amarone will continue to thrive for generations to come.

So the next time you're looking to add something special to your wine collection or simply want to indulge in a luxurious glass of red, reach for a bottle of Amarone. You'll be treated to a truly unforgettable wine experience that showcases the best of Italian winemaking tradition. With its rich history, unique production process, and unparalleled flavor profile, Amarone is a wine that deserves a place in every wine lover's collection.