Antolini Morópio Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2006, Doc Veneto, Italy

 

 

This wine is a blend of Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella and a small amount of Molinara. The vines are between 30-40 years old, grapes drying process took place over 100 days before pressing, maturation in small barrels and oak barriques and also a small part in cherry wood barrels for about 24 months, alcohol comes in at 16%.

This Amarone opened up with a ripe bouquet of field berries, raisins, mocha covered cherry, vanilla bean and sweet spices. On the mouthfeel, medium-full bodied, luscious entry, juicy and slightly creamy with fresh acidity and well integrated tannins. This wine's finish is very long, silky smooth with rich fruit concentration and sweet and peppery spices. This wine, even with 16% alcohol is well balanced by good acidity (for an Amarone) and generous fruit concentration, lots of everything but no excess. Loved it at first sip, a real treat and awesome value for such a well made Amarone. Score 93 points.

Purchased February 4, 2012 LCBO Vintages New Release (247957) at $34.95