Red wine | Veneto, Italy
Indulge in the opulence of Masi Costasera Amarone Classico, a magnificent red wine hailing from the heart of Valpolicella Classica in the Veneto region of Italy. Crafted with meticulous care by Masi Agricola, a winery renowned for its dedication to preserving Venetian winemaking traditions, this Amarone is a true testament to the art of appassimento. The 2015 vintage is particularly noteworthy, exhibiting a harmonious balance of power, elegance, and complexity.
This wine is born from a blend of indigenous grapes, primarily Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara, carefully selected and dried using the ancient appassimento method. This process concentrates the grape's sugars and flavors, resulting in a wine of remarkable intensity and structure. The grapes are left to dry naturally on bamboo racks, often in specialized drying lofts, for several months before vinification, a technique that dates back to ancient Roman times.
On the nose, the Masi Costasera Amarone Classico 2015 presents a captivating bouquet of ripe dark cherries, blackberry jam, and dried figs, interlaced with hints of vanilla, cocoa, and sweet spice. These aromas seamlessly transition to the palate, where the wine reveals its full-bodied character, velvety tannins, and a long, lingering finish. The wine has a dry profile and presents notes of cherry, chocolate, and spice.
With an alcohol content of 15%, this Amarone is a formidable yet refined wine that calls for careful consideration. The serving temperature should be around 18°C (64°F) to fully appreciate its aromatic and flavor complexity. Decanting the wine for at least one hour is recommended to allow the wine to fully open up, softening the tannins and releasing its full spectrum of aromas.
The Masi Costasera Amarone Classico 2015 is an exceptional partner for rich, flavorful dishes. It pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted red meats, game, mature cheeses, and hearty stews. The wine's depth and complexity also make it a delightful accompaniment to dark chocolate desserts or simply enjoyed on its own as a contemplative after-dinner treat. Imagine savoring it alongside a traditional Venetian dish like 'Pastissada de Caval' (horse meat stew) or a perfectly aged Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
Valpolicella, the region where this wine originates, is a land of rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, and a rich winemaking heritage. Masi Agricola, with its deep roots in the region, is committed to sustainable viticulture and the production of wines that express the unique terroir of Valpolicella. The Costasera Amarone is not just a wine; it's an experience, a journey into the heart of Italian winemaking tradition and a celebration of the region's unique character. This is a wine that deserves a special place in your collection.
Classic Amarone, well done. Rich, fruity, and structured, though perhaps a tad modern in its opulence. Great with game!