#1 James Suckling's Top 100 Wines of Italy 2024
The 2015 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico from Bertani is a remarkable wine, deeply rooted in tradition and craftsmanship. Sourced from the esteemed Tenuta Novare, this blend of 80% Corvina Veronese and 20% Rondinella grapes undergoes a meticulous air-drying process for 78 days. This method concentrates the flavors, which are then developed through fermentation and a seven-year aging period in large Slavonian oak barrels, followed by one year in the bottle. The result is a wine that showcases complexity and depth, with a character that reflects the rich heritage of Valpolicella.
On the nose, expect floral notes of violet complemented by hints of cedar and earthy undertones. The palate is full-bodied and balanced, offering bright acidity that enhances flavors of red berries and licorice, all while subtle smoky notes linger. Firm tannins and a layered structure promise both immediate enjoyment and significant aging potential, making this Amarone a captivating choice for connoisseurs. Celebrated by critics, including a perfect 100-point score from James Suckling, this vintage exemplifies Bertani's unwavering commitment to quality and tradition.
Aroma: Floral notes of violet, cedar, earthy undertones, and a touch of tar.
Taste: Full-bodied with bright acidity, flavors of red berries, licorice, and subtle smoky notes.
Finish: Firm tannins with a layered structure, promising a long and evolving finish.
100 James Suckling A vivid ruby color with a garnet tinge and super-restrained nose of licorice, oak bark, smoke, wood, cigar box, leather, dark chocolate, smashed violets and prunes. It has a fresh subtleness. Full-bodied and elegant on the palate due to ripe, filigreed tannins with long acidity and a toasty, savory aftertaste. One of the greatest Amarone. Corvina and Rondinella.
97 Decanter Comforting aromas of dusty wood, dried red fruits, dark chocolate and some subtle floral lift lead to a superbly textural and airy palate which gives energy and space to the concentrated red and black fruits. Breezy and fragrant, lifted and poised, it's a masterclass of harmony and elegance, with a lovely salty edge and some crunchy berries. The complexity will come with time.
93 Wine Spectator This elegant red shows lovely length and integration and feels fresh and focused despite its 10 years of aging on release. Mineral-driven, with an underpinning of iron and loamy earth to the mix of dried cherry and red currant fruit, bitter herb, cocoa powder, and singed orange peel notes. Fine, taut tannins firm the well-spiced finish. Corvina and Rondinella. Best from 2027 through 2040.
