Amarone della Valpolicella

Amarone della Valpolicella surpasses the average Italian red in intensity, due to its unique appassimento method where grapes dry for 120 days, concentrating sugars and flavours. The result is a 15-16% ABV wine with dark cherry and chocolate notes, costing roughly $50 per bottle. Compared to Recioto della Valpolicella, Amarone uses less residual sugar—often under 5 grams per litre—creating a drier profile ideal for pairing with aged cheeses. The 2017 vintage produced 20% fewer bottles due to harvest conditions, making it a sought-after collector's item.