Amarone

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Amarone della Valpolicella is one of Italy's most powerful and iconic red wines. It is made by drying the grapes (appassimento), which concentrates the sugars and aromas before fermentation. The result is a dry, full-bodied and high-alcohol wine with de...

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Amarone

Amarone della Valpolicella is one of Italy's most powerful and iconic red wines. It is made by drying the grapes (appassimento), which concentrates the sugars and aromas before fermentation. The result is a dry, full-bodied and high-alcohol wine with deep color, intense fruit and notes of prune, licorice, tobacco and chocolate.

The Appassimento method

After harvest, the grapes are left to dry for 2–4 months on drying racks (fruttai), where they lose up to 40% of their weight. This gives them high concentration and complexity. Fermentation is slow due to the sugar content, and aging typically takes place for 24–36 months in wooden barrels.

Grapes and style

  • Corvina : The dominant grape – contributes cherry, structure and bitter almond.
  • Rondinella : Provides color, fullness and fruitiness.
  • Molinara : Previously widespread – adds acidity and freshness.
  • Other permitted grapes : Oseleta, Croatina and Negrara are used in smaller quantities.

Amarone is typically dry, but with high alcohol (14.5–17%) and high viscosity. The style varies from modern fruit and barrel-influenced versions to classic, more bitter and oxidative varieties. Some producers use French oak, others Slavonian oak or large botti.

Areas and classification

Amarone is produced in the Valpolicella DOCG area of ​​the Veneto region. The most prestigious wines come from Valpolicella Classico – especially around Negrar, Fumane and Marano. Amarone requires a minimum of 2 years of barrel aging (4 years for riserva). The best wines can develop in the bottle for 15–25 years.

Frequently asked questions about Amarone

Is Amarone a sweet wine?

No. Amarone is dry, even though it is made from dried grapes. However, the high alcohol and concentrated fruit can give a soft and sweet sensation.

How does Amarone differ from Ripasso?

Ripasso is made by fermenting Valpolicella wine with Amarone skins. It produces a wine with more power than regular Valpolicella, but less than Amarone. Amarone is much more concentrated and high in alcohol.

How long can Amarone be stored?

The best Amarone wines can be aged for 15–25 years, developing tertiary aromas such as leather, tobacco and dried fruit. Young Amarone can also be drunk after a few years of decanting.

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