Remo Farina Montefante Riserva Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2006, Doc, Veneto, Italy

 

This Amarone is a blend of 70% Corvina, 20% Rondinella, 5% Molinara and 5% Dindarella with maturation taking place in 5 hectolitre Slavonian oak casks for 4 years, plus 1 year in bottle, before its release. The alcohol comes in at a reasonable 15% (for an Amarone).

This wine opened up with aromas of stewed berries, raisin, prune, dried figs, soft leather and savoury spices. On the mouthfeel, medium-full bodied, rich with silky smooth texture, a lot of fruit and alcohol but it is perfectly balanced by crisp acidity and fine tannins. This wine has a very good length and depth on the finish with a hint of chocolate with raisins, red and black fruit flavours with a little heat and very smooth. This Amarone is very tasty and flavourful with lots of everything but no excess. A real treat, very comforting and strongly recommended, score 92 points.

Purchased September 1, 2012 LCBO New Release (63636) at $59.95

Remo Farina Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2009, DOC, Veneto, Italy

This wine is made from the usual suspects, Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara, with the first fermenting process carried out in autumn. At the beginning of spring it is then re-fermented (Ripasso) with leftover Amarone grape skins and seeds soaked in wine, which adds flavours and texture to the Valpolicella.

This wine opens up with attractive aromas of cherry, dark plums, raisins, chocolate and sweet spices. On the mouthfeel, medium bodied (with alcohol coming in at 13.5%) with balance acidity, soft tannins and well integrated oak. Very tasty on the finish with a creamy texture and flavours of cherry, chocolate and spices lingering. Quit a lovely and enjoyable wine and represents excellent value for money. Strongly recommended, Score 89 points.

Purchased July 7, 2012 LCBO New Release at $16.95