Wines from Veneto

Brigaldara's Amarone Riserva is a wine born from the desire to interpret Valpolicella in its most original form. The strictly selected grapes that form its basis are chosen from the best vineyards in order to maximise the potential of the estate's own vineyards in Valpolicella.

Garnet red in colour, with aromas of preserved fruit, spices, sour cherries and hints of tobacco and cocoa. Brigaldara's Riserva is a large, concentrated "old-school" Amarone with a good dose of residual sugar and volatile acidity, which give the wine its unmistakable style and lend it plenty of complexity. This uncompromising and rich Amarone hits all the right notes: Mocha, old leather, smoke, tobacco and liquorice are just some of the exciting components of its long, personality-rich and distinctive finish. An energetic wine with a balance between fruit and power, which plays with its class and depth and has secured a place in the appellation's list of best wines thanks to its complex and deep tertiary flavours. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, shining, noble ruby red with a subtly brightening rim. Elegant wood on the nose, ripe berry fruit, dried tomato, comes in several waves, incense, cherries, raspberries, very complex. Very elegant on the palate, with notes of black tea, tightly woven tannins, lots of juiciness and fruit, extremely elegant Amarone with plenty of verve." Falstaff

"Very dark ruby in colour. Interesting, dense and lifted nose of peppery cherry, damson and plum, with a hint of pine and creaminess from what I suspect is oak. Smooth and well balanced. Almost defies its 16%. On the palate, it doesn't come across as bulky, and it has the right amount of supple tannins. A little warmth on the finish, but without the often distracting sweetness that this type of wine usually has." Jancis Robinson

"This wine gracefully combines taut, sculpted tannins with a tarry minerality and a detailed flavour profile of dried cherries, plum jam, tobacco and cocoa nibs. Medium-bodied and silky on the palate, with an orange peel acidity that cleanses the finish." Wine Spectator

"A delicious, liquid Riserva with beautiful dried fruit and nutty, cedar-like influences. Also floral notes and dried peel. Full and silky, with a residue of red, savoury tannin coming through at the end. Very pretty now, but it will age for a long time." James Suckling

"Aromas of black plum and spice cake rise from the glass of this rich and heady Amarone. As the wine progresses, notes of dark chocolate and espresso follow through to dried thyme and violet notes. The rounded and rich tannins provide a structured and straightforward finish, while on the palate the tart red and dried black fruits mingle with sweet spices, leading to an earthy finish." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2013 Amarone della Valpolicella Riserva San Floriano smolders up from the glass with a smoky blend of dried black cherries, blood orange and grilled herbs. This is a perfect mixture of elegance and purity, with silken textures and polished red fruits flowing across a lively stream of acidity. It’s youthfully dense and powerful yet also restrained, finishing with a web of fine-grained tannin that clamps down hard as hints of licorice and sour orange slowly taper off. It will take a good deal of time for the 2013 to come fully into focus, but it will be worth the wait. In 2013, the Riserva hailed entirely from the Case Vecie vineyard." Vinous

Ruby red, with a fruity bouquet of ripe sour cherries and wild berries, nuances of hay, amaretto and liquorice. The full-bodied flavour is full and long-lasting with aromas of cassis and a velvety structure. SUPERIORE.DE

"Generous black cherry aromas swirl in the glass with layers of sweet and savory spice, pepper and sweet tobacco. The palate is forward with juicy ripe red berries and blackberries wrapped in sweet oak spices and fine-grained tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"Inviting nose of almost candied red cherries, berries and a hint of cherry liqueur chocolate. Full and intense, the cocoa-like note coats the very fine tannins and seems to colour the fruit more and more as the palate progresses. Pleasant, slightly abrasive, almost dusty sensation on the finish." James Suckling

Crosara Breganze 2017 is a textbook Merlot: full of ripe dark fruits, blackberry pie, liquorice, chocolate, toasted oak and grilled herbs. Offering superb inner sweetness, it is both powerful and elegant, with a lush, super-soft mouthfeel. Pleasingly, a wonderfully focused mineral component saves the wine from ever being overdone. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep nose with tapenade and olives on top of the minty blackberries, tar and black spices. Very compact and dense on the palate, with very firm tannins and fresh, medium acidity. A little tight and chewy, with a hint of bitter chocolate in the finish. Give it some time. Try in 2024." James Suckling

"The 2017 Crosara is deep and sweetly scented with violet and lavender perfumes giving way to black currants. This is textural and velvety in feel, with ripe red and black berries complemented by sweet spice and vibrant acidity. It tapers off long and floral with grippy tannins framing the expression nicely, and a twang of sour citrus perfectly completes the expression. The Crosara is a varietal Merlot from partially dried grapes." Vinous

For the first time, the winery presents a small amount of its matured Amarone flagship "Calcarole" from the very good 2011 vintage as a so-called "late release". Rich, dark, almost decadent bouquet that evokes memories of Christmas cake with brown sugar icing served with a cup of hot cocoa. It is velvety-smooth and full-bodied, yet perfectly balanced, with ripe black fruits mingling with exotic spices, mocha and violet flowers. After almost a minute, you can still taste notes of dark chocolate and a hint of bitter coffee. While the Calcarole shamelessly flaunts its extroverted character, it does so with class. The further five years of bottle ageing have done it more than good! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, brilliant ruby red. Elegant nose of ripe cherries with a fine scent of roses. Creamy attack on the palate with flattering play, expands nicely, pithy red fruit, presents itself very harmoniously until the final, firm pressure." Falstaff

"Deep ruby red with hints of amber. Red cherry, dark plums, botanical herbs and minerals on the seductive nose. Dense and very supple, with ripe red cherry, tobacco and sweet spice flavours that are precise, concentrated and layered. The finish is long and lively, offering lingering spicy nuances and a hint of faded rose petals. Just a hint of excessive alcohol lowers my score, but at 16% alcohol this olfactory sensation is virtually unavoidable. A stunning Amarone; if I'm not mistaken, this may be the best Calcarole I've ever tasted." Vinous

Rosso Ca'del Merlo is a refined cuvée of Sangiovese, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Corvina, Croatina, Nebbiolo and Rondinella. With its 7 years of wood ageing and its dark-fruited Cabernet style, it once again proves the great class of the house. In the breathtaking bouquet, peppery herbs and flowers meander towards a mixture of crushed blackberries and cloves. Silky and elegant on the palate, with a pure blend of wild berry fruits and sweet spices framed by a mineral acidity. Violet blossom resonates on the long and slightly smoky finish, which ends long and fresh with a tart hint. Power meets grace, and with tremendous style and breed. SUPERIORE.DE

"A fusion of Cab Franc, Cab, Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella and a spice of tannic Oseleta. A small part gently dried. A medium-bodied expression that stands out for its liveliness, its exuberant everyday drinkability and its spiciness typical of the grape variety. Blackcurrant, mint, sage and lilac, with a bouquet garni doused by a long meander of gentle tannins. Lively, juicy and powerful, but above all a real delight! One glass is not enough." James Suckling

Strong ruby red. Opulent aromas of dark berries, mint, spices, forest floor and undergrowth. In the balanced, powerful drink very clear, juicy and tight. Spreads comfortably with notes of plum, raspberry compote and chocolate. This great Amarone captivates from the first sip - its long, silky finish leaves nothing to be desired. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, brilliant ruby red. Medicinal tones in the nose, balsamic, eucalyptus, black currants, in the reverberation easily after rubber. Fresh and juicy on the palate, stretches clear and long across the tongue, concentrated yet fruity, precise, has lively acidity, long and savoury finish." Falstaff

"Inviting aromas of tilled soil, underbrush and ripe dark-skinned berry lead the nose. The full-bodied concentrated palate delivers prune, raspberry compote, star anise and black pepper alongside big fine-grained tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"The incredible spice, black-plum and bitter cocoa-powder nose of this Amarone rivets you to the spot. Stunning concentration and a breathtaking balance of fruit, tannin and some magic. Very long, silky finish." James Suckling

"The 2012 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Capitel Monte Olmi shows huge intensity over a robust mouthfeel. I love that eucalyptus balsamic note that comes up at the top, rounded off by softer notes of chocolate and tobacco. The blend is 30% Corvina, 30% Corvinone, 30% Rondinella and a 10% selection of Oseleta, Negrara, Dindarella, Croatina and Forselina. Aging takes place in large Slavonian oak casks. This is a powerful, full-bodied wine with a knockout 17% alcohol punch that makes no apologies for its strength. It comes forward with pride and boastfulness." Wine Advocate

Maternigo means "mother's land" and is also the name of one of the Tedeschi family's vineyards. The vineyards cover around 33 hectares in two municipalities, Tregnago and Mezzane di Sotto. The new Cru-Amarone Riserva Maternigo is only produced in the best years and its grapes come exclusively from the Barila vineyard. This single vineyard was selected after careful zoning and characterisation of the soil, which is characterised by very low vigour and consequently produces grapes rich in structure.

This gives it its own complex and aromatic character, which is characterised by a high concentration of natural aromatic components in the grapes. This complexity creates an intense bouquet of red fruits and Mediterranean flowers. These notes are echoed on the palate, along with subtle hints of eucalyptus, which give the wine freshness and at the same time hints of sweet spices. The impressive result is an elegant wine with great structure and exciting development potential - and an unmistakable sensory experience. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, bright, rich ruby red colour. Noble and clear on the nose, of ripe, rich cherries, red peach, rosehips and wild berry mousse, with fine spicy components on the finish. Full-bodied and dense on the palate, opens rich and with dark berry fruit components, juicy tannin envelops the fine melting, ends long in the final with fine pressure on elderberry syrup." Falstaff

"The 2016 Amarone della Valpolicella Riserva Maternigo is ashy and intense, with tobacco giving way to peppery herbs, dried cherries and dark chocolate. It feels velvety-smooth and glycerin-like, with a dense wave of ripe red fruit and sweet spice carried by salty minerals and vibrant acids. It leaves a hint of rich sweet fruit along with violet and lavender tones as it finishes lightly textured. The 2016 took some time to develop in the glass, but it really shows the magic of the vintage. Bravo." Vinous

"Corvina, Corvinone and Rondinella from the Barila vineyard, grape harvest, followed by long fermentation and maceration, then 48 months in Slavonian oak, a wine with a beautiful olfactory impact, notes of blackcurrant, nuances of wild mint and nutmeg, spicy attack, spicy finish." Luca Gardini

"This wine exemplifies the unique world that Amarone lives in as a wine. It is both very powerful and elegant at the same time. The nose is reserved at first, showing a mixture of black currant, plum and raspberry. The wine then shifts gears highlighting the bitter-chocolate notes and chalky minerality that come from this unique single vineyard, Barila. The bottling has firm tannins and vibrant acidity, giving the wine seriousness and demanding it be lost in the cellar for some time." Wine Enthusiast

"It's very restrained on the nose, with a dense package of baked red cherry flavours and a bright mineral, almost wet stone character. Mediterranean herbs too. Full-bodied palate that is back under control, but there is a dense package of firm, fine tannins, dried fruit and spice waiting to burst out. It's hard to believe this wine is only 17% alcohol, it's so well constructed. It will be superb in a year or two and beyond if you can resist the temptation now. Best from 2023 onwards." James Suckling

"Spicy, woody black cherry, blueberry jam and coffee scents are joined by deep, rich, earthy and almost-jammy flavours, with cocoa and damson. Round and extremely fresh with a persistent finish, this is by no means a shrinking violet yet has the balance to match its considerable concentration and heft." Decanter

Rosso Ca'del Merlo is a refined cuvée of Sangiovese, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Corvina, Croatina, Nebbiolo and Rondinella. With its 7 years of ageing in wood and its dark, fruity Cabernet style, it once again demonstrates the great class of the house. In the breathtaking bouquet, peppery herbs and flowers meander towards a mixture of crushed blackberries and cloves. Silky and elegant on the palate, with a pure blend of wild berry fruits and sweet spices framed by a mineral acidity. Violet blossoms resonate on the long and slightly smoky finish, which ends long and fresh with a tart hint. Power meets grace, with tremendous style and breed. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Valpolicella Classico Superiore Ca’ del Merlot is distinctly savory in the glass, with a thrust of wild herbs that evolves into fresh picked strawberries and wet stone. This is a model of purity and balance, with brilliant acidity that propels its crisp wild berry fruits as violet inner florals collect toward the close. Further elevated by a hint of confectionary spice, it tapers off remarkably fresh and vivid, with a blueberry tinge and dusty tannins that promise a lovely evolution. This is a gorgeous interpretation of Cà dal Merlo. It's a blend of 80% Corvina, Corvinone, and Rondinella, with 20% Cabernet and Merlot, with half of the grapes dried for two months and the other half pressed fresh after harvest." Vinous

Zenato's Amarone is all about elegance, with ripe fruit at the centre of the inviting bouquet with light notes of aromatic herbs. Powerful, sparkling ruby colour. Very appealing and multi-layered nose of plum, black cherry and a hint of leather. The palate reveals its overripe power, fine tannins and warm, expansive flavour. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright garnet red with a broad, brightening rim. Baroque bouquet on the nose, of sultanas, preserved cherry and varnish. Powerful on the palate, slightly warming, with a fine-grained tannin structure, mouth-filling and extremely long on the tongue." Falstaff

"Very ripe nose with aromas of dried sultanas, toffee, angelica and dark plum fruit. Powerful, soft and warm on the palate." Decanter

"A harmonious version, round and medium to full-bodied, with fine tannins wrapped in a fragrant blend of macerated cherries and strawberries, tea roses and tea leaves, minerals and spices. Juicy finish." Wine Spectator

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2018 is exotic in the glass, with nuances of blood orange and mint that fade into preserved cherries and cloves. Supple and round on the entry, it impresses with its core of lively acidity and vividly ripe red fruits, which create an interplay of sweet and sour on the palate. The wine finishes with depth and concentration, but is also unexpectedly fresh and allows notes of plums and autumnal spices to linger for a long time. For this vintage, this is an extremely successful achievement. I take my hat off to Zenato." Vinous

"Very aromatic, with flavours of dried red and black fruits, including dried blueberries and dates, along with a lovely, spicy layer of nutmeg and pressed flowers. Full-bodied with an amazingly harmonious texture on the palate, thanks to the dense, very fine tannins, which also provide super length. A bright, salty, mineral note sets in and drives the finish even further. Exquisite Amarone." James Suckling

Intense, bright colour, very clear scent of ripe cherries, a bit of plums, cloves and white pepper in the background. Grandiose fruit on the palate, much grippy tannin, long. An exciting, still quite young wine with enormous potential for many, many years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, sparkling ruby red. Concentrated and multi-layered nose of warm, ripe forest berries, blackcurrant, black elderberries, underlaid with fine sandalwood. Powerful with much tension on the palate, builds up in many layers, fruit, spice, densely woven and juicy tannin, ends with firm pressure, can still mature, is now already an experience." Falstaff

"Fully saturated red. Deep, rich aromas of balsamic cocoa, blackberry jam and aromatic herbs. Sweet and creamy in the mouth, with the depth and intensity of fresh dark fruit and balsamic flavors to support its oakiness. Rich and savory, this finishes with excellent energy and outstanding grip and length. The Capitel Monte Olmi always showcases a stronger balsamic note than Tedeschi’s entry level Amarone. " Ian d’Agata (vinous.com)

"Intriguing and aromatic on the nose, with lovely sage and incense character, here's a sleek, full-bodied red that reins in its power to a tightly-knit core of raspberry puree, Earl Grey tea leaf and rich, loamy earth flavors that linger on the long and fragrant finish." Wine Spectator

"If you like big Amarones, this one is big with a capital B. The most robust and powerful of the bunch, the 2011 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Capitel Monte Olmi is also sophisticated and integrated, despite its huge alcohol content at 17%. I knew the alcohol was high, but I would have never guessed it was that high, and that speaks to the relative balance achieved here. It is sweet, robust and richly layered and textured in the mouth. This is a huge wine that will make you very happy, very fast. The blend is 30% Corvina, 30% Corvinone, 30% Rondinella and a 10% mix of Oseleta, Negrara, Dindarella, Croatina and Forselina, which comes from the Monte Olmi vineyard in the Pedemonte hills. The grapes are dried for a lengthy four months. This is the estate's flagship label, and it became a Riserva starting with the 2009 vintage." Wine Advocate

"Very ripe morello cherries, dark plums, cigar box, kirsch and stemmy undertones, but also orange rind and plenty of floral elements. Full body, powerful and grainy tannins and a dense yet driven finish. Extremely pure fruit. This is always reserved and beautiful." James Suckling

1997 saw the birth of Bradisismo, named after the geological event that led to the formation of the Colli Berici. It is a successful symbiosis of the intense, concentrated flavour of ripe Cabernet Sauvignon cherries and the lively, spicy notes of Carmenere. With its bouquet of small dark berries, spices, pepper and chocolate, it is a wonderfully inexpensive alternative to the great Bordeaux blends or Supertuscans. On the palate, it has a velvety texture, with a mix of dark fruits, cherries, floral notes and fine tannins that glide seamlessly over the palate. Deep, long finish and very good ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red colour with a violet core. On the nose, aromas of cassis, pickled forest fruits and green pepper, plus dark chocolate and black pepper. Fruity on the palate, present tannins, animating drinking flow, persistent and with a fine salinity in the finish." Falstaff

"The 2019 Cabernet Bradisismo opens slowly in the glass with exotic spices and crushed stones fading into blackcurrant, and is savoury and darkly floral. It's cool and racy in style, holding its power in reserve as a wave of ripe red and black fruit floods the palate with youthful concentration. Salty minerals mingle with rugged tannins on the long and structured final." Vinous

"This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Carmenere opens with deep aromas of blackberry jam, spiced plum compote and star anise. As the wine develops in the glass, notes of violet, tobacco and graphite rise. Stupendously well balanced, with integrated tannins and mouth-watering acidity that frames the generous dark-hued fruits on the palate, as sweet oak spices linger on the finish." Wine Enthusiast

"A balanced and lively blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenere. Plums, blueberries, dark cherries, undergrowth, leaves, sweet tobacco and a hint of black olives. Medium to full body with fine, firm tannins. Structured and textured with dark berries and some chocolate character on the palate. Earthy with a hint of spice on the long finish. Best from 2025." James Suckling

La Poja from the vineyard of the same name is a great terroir wine in which Allegrini does not dry the grapes. Made from the indigenous Corvina grape variety, this red wine opens with inviting aromas of ripe black-skinned berries, cedar wood and spices. The elegantly structured, full-bodied palate offers spiced blackberries, liquorice and black pepper alongside fine-grained tannins. Dynamic, precise and very elegant in all its components, it offers maximum enjoyment and promises a terrific development. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, rich ruby colour. Opens with notes of fresh red cherries, some blackcurrant, but is also somewhat closed. Lots of velvety, well-integrated tannins, plus some milk chocolate with redcurrant, pithy, spans a wide arc, savoury." Falstaff

"The 2018 La Poja opens slowly in the glass as notes of crushed ashen stone and savory herbs give way to crushed cherries and blueberries. This is a decidedly delicate and finessed style. Brisk acidity enlivens its tart wild berry fruits as plum and dark chocolate notes evolve toward the close. The 2018 leaves a coating of fine tannins to linger, finishing with admirable length yet structured. Always a standout, La Poja is a varietal Corvina made entirely from fresh (not dried) grapes." Vinous

"Attractive aromas of dark raspberry jam, dried strawberries and figs with hints of dark chocolate, flowers and orange rind. Medium-to full-bodied with very silky tannins and lovely dryness to the mid-palate. Impressive concentration and length, showing a very long, persistent finish with juicy black cherries and bitter chocolate at the end. Nothing sweetish here." James Suckling

"Aromas of black cherry and plum combine with sandalwood, clove, allspice and savory herbs to woo you into the glass. Elegant, refined, structured and full in body, this wine is pure class. The dark-hued fruit flavors are integrated with the savory elements of the wine, where each plays a key role. The star of the show is on the finish where a distinct minerality reminiscent of chalk stands firm with a lift of acidity around it." Wine Enthusiast

"This 2018 La Poja is super-bright and herbal, with cool, sapid black and red berries accompanied by balsam, violet and lavender overtones. Precise and vertical yet silky-soft and succulent, it perfectly balances high acidity with creamy intensity, and needs more time to show its best." Decanter

As every year, the secret star of the house gives the Dominator in Dal-Forno style. Dark and dense, it reveals an intense bouquet with marmalade-like aromas of red and dark fruits, alongside which spices and wood, tobacco and chocolate echo. At the same time, the youthful, stormy taste is an overwhelming demonstration of power. SUPERIORE.DE

"A compact, focused red, this presents pretty violet, medicinal herb and anise notes on the nose as it slowly expands -- flavors that are more subdued at first on the palate. This is supported by dense, plushly textured tannins, flavors of mulled cherry, dark chocolate and amaro, loamy earth and smoke that are slowly revealed, gaining momentum and lingering on the long finish. Give this some air or time in the glass to allow it to shine brightest." Wine Spectator

"Pungent nose of violets, Amarena cherries, dried figs and slightly charred oak. With air, some toffee notes and pressed flowers emerge. Not so much full-bodied as full-bodied, with silky, fine and polished tannins. Still very young and powerful at the moment. Shows exceptional quality. To be tasted from 2024." James Suckling

"The 2017 Valpolicella Superiore Monte Lodoletta reminds me of all the desserts, spices and sweets you experience at Christmas. A range of medicinal cherries, plum sauce, ginger biscuits, cloves, cinnamon and dried roses are captivating. The wine has enormous depth, but at the same time it has fantastic freshness. The brilliant acidity gives it an energy rarely found in Valpolicella, enlivening the crisp red fruits and pretty flowers within. The 2017 finishes dramatically long and perfumed, with sour blackberries, currants and a bitter hint of cocoa. It far exceeds expectations for a Valpolicella, with the power and flavours of an Amarone, but with a vibrancy that allows it to hold its own at the dinner table." Vinous

As every year, the secret star of the house is the Dominator in the Dal-Forno style. Dark and dense, it reveals an intense bouquet with jammy aromas of red and dark fruit, alongside spices and wood, tobacco and chocolate. At the same time, the youthful, stormy flavour is an overwhelming demonstration of power. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, dark ruby red colour. Expressive and fragrant nose of dried rose petal, raspberries, cooked oranges, blackberries, precious wood, dark chocolate, fine mint tones on the finish. On the palate with a polished entry, savoury, with great juiciness and clear fruit, coated with noble wood tannin, powerful, elegant, long." Falstaff

"The 2016 Valpolicella Superiore Monte Lodoletta is intense, with a captivating bouquet that blends cedar shavings, savory herbs and balsamic spices with rum-soaked cherries, sweet lavender and dark chocolate. This sweeps across the palate with silken textures, delivering masses of tart red and black fruits along with hints of espresso bean. Crunchy mineral tones and zesty acidity add dramatic lift. The 2016 tapers off long and staining, sporting a pleasantly bitter tinge of cocoa as grippy tannins resonate. The 2016 is a well-muscled dancer yet still youthfully coiled." Vinous

"The Dal Forno Romano 2016 Valpolicella Superiore Monte Lodoletta is a wine of characteristically dark intensity and rich extraction. If there's one thing this estate knows, it's making big wines with soaring intensity that strike a balance and have complexity all the while. The Dal Forno production is always an artful expression, as these are wines that can be made in no other hands. This is because of the unique qualities of the Lodoletta Vineyard, which has alluvial clay soils, and the proprietary technology used during fermentation and winemaking. This classic vintage reveals black fruit, olive, dark tar, mahogany and sweet barbecue spice. The wine is soft and rich in terms of texture with tight tannins, but it finishes relatively dry with a contained 14% alcohol content." Wine Advocate

"Darker and richer in aroma compared to the 2017 Valpolicella, it clings on to a nutty, reductive character, with wisps of mint and fenugreek. In the mouth it's fleshy and powerful; less vertical than the 2017. There's a slightly meaty touch to the ripe, concentrated red and black berries, lifted by floral notes of iris and violets as well as crushed rock and exotic spices. Voluptuous black cherry emerges towards the end, but this still feels quite tight and closed; the best is yet to come." Decanter

Alongside dal Forno's Valpolicella, this is probably the only wine from this appellation that redefines the character of this famous Veronese red wine in a stunning way and justifiably sets a benchmark that is unattainable for most winemakers in the region. Deep, dark ruby red in colour with scattered garnet-red reflections. A cornucopia of small red berries on the nose, plus sweet cherry, cedar wood and smoke. Firm, complex and multi-layered on the palate with an elegance that forms a masterful symbiosis with the impressive body. Produced using the traditional Ripasso method and, as always, perfectly modelled by hand. Magnificent! SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2016 Valpolicella Classico Superiore is wild and exotic in the glass, with a spicy burst of citrus and hints of graphite that give way to crushed blackberries and incense. This is a juicy and vibrant interpretation of Quintarelli Valpolicella, with a wave of mineral-tinged wild berry fruit that washes across the palate, guided by stimulating acidity. It tapers off on a note of refinement, still quite mineral and classically dry, with a coating of fine tannins that add a pleasantly crunchy sensation. Since no Amarone was produced in 2016, the Valpolicella received a percentage of that fruit, propelling this beauty to the next level. " Vinous

"Elegance and great flavour tension in another evergreen of the variety. Blend of Corvina and Rondinella with Cabernet, complex and fascinating bouquet, jammy blueberries, hints of undergrowth, black pepper and bay leaves. Perfectly integrated tannins on the finish, fruity aftertaste." Luca Gardini

Celestino Gaspari is regarded on the scene as the successor to Giuseppe Quintarelli, having worked there for many years as cellar master. His vintage Amarone has an intense ruby colour with a garnet sheen. The full bouquet has aromas of dark chocolate, prunes, black cherries and cloves. Complex and full-bodied on the palate, very juicy fruit, cherries, plums flanked by a gentle tannin. It offers an impressive multi-dimensionality and great richness, which is evenly distributed across all the senses - regardless of whether it is drunk young after a few hours of decanting or whether it reaches further maturity in the bottle over many years with good storage. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense ruby red colour tending towards violet. Rich, fruity nose with notes of sour cherries, plums, raspberries and a light, well-integrated vegetal note, followed by liquorice and walnut. Striking and rich on the palate, the dense tannins ensure a lingering flavour on the palate." Falstaff

"The 2017 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico is savoury and unexpectedly fresh with a bouquet of crushed black cherries and dried roses accompanied by savoury, exotic spices. The wine has a silky texture with a balanced inner sweetness that complements the depth of the mineralised red and black fruits. The residual acids provide a lovely energy on the inside, while the liquorice and citrus notes slowly fade into dark chocolate, all beautifully framed by a layer of fine tannin." Vinous

"Needs air to develop the beautiful black fruits on the nose, from redcurrants to dates and fresh elderberries. On the palate, however, the fruit unfolds immediately and takes on inky, liquorice notes and a hint of polished oak as it progresses. Full-bodied and beautifully focussed with good power and balanced structure. The finish is long, but will gain in length and complexity as it matures in the bottle. A "modern" wine, but one that betrays nothing of the Amarone tradition. Excellent. Drinkable now, but it will continue to improve." James Suckling

Very deep with exotic spices and dried black cherries. More savoury than sweet on the palate, salty minerals, sour citrus and a touch of juicy acidity mingle with robust and dark red fruits. Finishes long and leaves an autumnal aromatic carpet of spices and a hint of vanillin oak, always fresh and never too broad. In its balance and beguiling nature, it has an almost dangerous drinkability that is likely to lead to emptying the bottle far too quickly ... SUPERIORE.DE

"Elegant, dark ruby with violet hints. In the nose of fresh brown bread, then of pickled cherries, plums, also floral of roses and lilac, blackberry syrup in the aftertaste. On the palate with slightly noticeable wood and a bitter undertone, spicy, dense without being ponderous, lingers for a long time." Falstaff

"The 2015 Recioto della Valpolicella Classico is intense and more savory than sweet, with a blend of crushed ashen stone and grilled herbs giving way to dried black cherries. Its silken textures coat the palate with depths of ripe red and black fruits complemented by dark chocolate and inner rose notes. This leaves a bitter balsamic twang as the lips curl, and the mouth is left watering for more. For all of its power, the 2015 comes across as remarkably balanced and enjoyable today, but also with a bright future ahead of it." Vinous

"A slightly heady nose of sweet, dried black fruits that continues on the palate. Full-bodied with well-integrated tannins that drive the fruit. Well structured and everything in order." James Suckling

Only nine years after the harvest is this great wine released for sale: The slow drying of the fully ripe harvested grapes gives this cru its immense power and density as well as the extraordinary character with massive ripeness, fruit fullness, beautiful concentration and great elegance. On the palate, Bertani's Amarone demonstrates freshness, noble lightness and great dynamism. An exciting wine and for decades probably the most classic Amarone - the archetype, so to speak - of the entire appellation. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, very intense ruby. Opens with light mineral notes, then after pickled cherries and rich red berry fruit, underlaid with fine blood orange in the background. Very precise in attack and course, elegant cherry fruit, grippy, dense tannin, opens in many layers, fine melting, now already easy to drink, very juicy, very great development potential." Falstaff

"Medium garnet red. There is so much going on in the nose! Fruits and dried spices. Next time I'm in an Indian restaurant with a good wine list, I want to try an Amarone. Really very complex and exciting. So fresh and clean! Dry finish. So very different from the commercial Amarone norm. Really quite exciting." Jancis Robinson

"The 2012 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico takes its time opening in the glass, slowly evolving with a rich blend of crushed black cherries complemented by dusty violet florals and exotic spice. This coasts across the palate, silky-smooth yet with cooling minerality and brisk acids that add an energetic feel as a saturation of red fruits and fine tannins collect toward the close. The 2012 finishes lightly structured with a resonance of balsamic spice and bitter hints of cocoa that linger on and on - a fantastic and genuinely harmonious rendition of Bertani's Amarone Classico." Vinous

"Wow, what a complex bouquet, with a base of dried cherries spiced up with hints of mild coffee and walnuts. There are also dried flowers, wild herbs and spices such as tarragon and cloves. Subtle hints of dried banana and apricot. The palate is full-bodied, very smooth, intense and balanced, with firm, spicy tannins that drive everything forward. Long, long finish. It's nice to taste it now, but this wine, already almost ten years old, will be in your cellar for a long time." James Suckling

Amarone Sergio Zenato Riserva - seductive complexity. Deep bouquet of black berries and cocoa, violets and lavender. The taste with aromas of cherries, blackberries and wild berries, in the long finish the invigorating fresh impressions of medicinal herbs. A noble wine of the upper class. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, shiny ruby. Opened with slightly earthy notes, of porcini mushrooms and dried tomatoes, pickled cherries, chocolate. Dense and compact on the palate, opening with many layers of soft and dense tannin, dark berry fruit, in the finale to noble dark chocolate." Falstaff

"Dried thyme and rosemary are a fragrant entry point for this sleek, sculpted red, cloaking muscular tannins in a well-spiced robe of currant pâte de fruit, tarry mineral, fruit cake and rich hints of melted licorice and mocha." Wine Spectator

"This Amarone shows shaved-chocolate, dried-strawberry and burnt-orange undertones. Full-bodied, round and juicy. Soft tannins. Very intense and flavorful. A complex, layered riserva Amarone." James Suckling

This beautiful cuvée of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot from a great vintage presents itself impeccably! Deep, complex fruit bouquet, rounded off by fine sweet spices, tobacco and coffee. Punchy and textured on the palate, blackberry, raspberry and a solidly woven tannin structure in the several-minute final. A wine with great development potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2017 Fratta lifts up with a dark and alluring display of black currants, sweet herbs, rich notes of mocha and savory brown spice. This is cool-toned and spicy, a bit lean, yet with a polished feel, showing tart blackberries offset by hints of sour citrus and toasty oak, as violet-tinged florals form toward the close. Fine tannins make themselves known throughout the finale, as this tapers off lightly structured, with hints of licorice lingering long." Vinous

"Deep, dense aromas of crushed black fruit with notes of charcoal and dried herbs, such as rosemary and thyme. The fruit envelops the lightly firm tannins on the full-bodied palate, creating a dense, velvety and lengthy mouthful. A well-crafted red that’s highly concentrated and bursting with flavor, but it also shows astute balance." James Suckling

"Here's an iconic wine from the Veneto made from a blend of 68% Cabernet Sauvignon and 32% Merlot. The Maculan 2017 Fratta shows enormous intensity, muscle and brawn. The wine has absorbed every last drop of sunshine, heat and dry weather conditions that characterized the 2017 growing season, and it does so with elegance and poise. The wine is impeccably balanced with dark fruit and spice. It's the kind of big-boned red wine you'll want to pair with a hearty dish of barbecue or marinated beef." Wine Advocate

This great wine is only released for sale nine years after the harvest: The slow drying of the fully ripe grapes gives this cru its immense strength and density as well as its extraordinary character with powerful ripeness, fruit fullness, beautiful concentration and great elegance. On the palate, Bertani's Amarone demonstrates freshness, noble lightness and great dynamism. An exciting wine and for decades probably the most classic Amarone - the archetype, so to speak - of the entire appellation. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant ruby colour, sparkling, slightly brightening rim. Very clear and precise, flavours of finely ripened cherry and plum, fine spice. Firm, very fine-meshed tannins, has very good tension, juicy." Falstaff

"This classic Amarone exudes a robust essence of dark fruits and earthy undertones, reminiscent of a rich, oak forest and worn leather. On the palate, it unveils a compelling story of ripe cherries, plums, and a hint of spice, culminating in a velvety finish that lingers like a timeless song." Wine Enthusiast

"A great, dense core of mixed dried berries, along with notes of caramel and a mix of mild Indian spices, from coriander to mace. Full-bodied with a liqueur-like pearl of fruit running through the long, long finish with ample but well-integrated tannins. Excellent and so fresh." James Suckling

"Tenuta Novare, a blend of Corvina Veronese and Rondinella, matured for 7 years in large Slavonian barrels, followed by a year in the bottle, an example of classicism and moderation. Blackberry plum on the nose, a hint of liquorice powder, then eucalyptus. Salty minerality with a balsamic finish." Luca Gardini

Capo di Stato has long been a legend thanks to its top quality and history. The cuvée of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbech was created by Conte Loredan Gasparini. A wine rich in finesse in the classic Bordeaux style, dense and of outstanding structure with flavours of spices and red fruits. Fascinatingly ripe tannins, skilfully integrated into the new French barrique in which the wine was matured for two years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, bright, rich ruby red colour. Great interplay of spicy aromas on the nose, pepper, cassis, leather, tobacco, then again red pepper, liquorice, forest berries on the finish. Extremely juicy and balanced on the palate, fruit and acidity are well balanced, with pressure, currently still showing young tannins at the back, already pointing to a long life." Falstaff

"This is a historic wine worth the search if you like drinking history. Made from old clones of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec, the wine exudes the dark plummy notes you would expect, with a deep earthy and savory element. Fine, yet firm tannins give the full-bodied wine gravitas as the deep dark fruits yield to cedar, tobacco, clove and worn leather." Wine Enthusiast

"A juicy, medium-bodied red wine with lovely earthy funk, dark olive and pepper notes in the spiced black cherry fruit. Supple palate with firm but silky tannins complementing its fleshy dark cherry core. Good-natured. Better from 2024." James Suckling

This exceptional Recioto (formerly "A Roberto") was aged for 6 years in Slavonian oak. Deep dark ruby red in colour. In the nose, a beguiling extract of black cherry, dried flowers and a fine spiciness, with hints of liquorice and mint. On the palate, the fruit is uniform, extremely harmonious and concentrated to the point. Notes of gingerbread, dark chocolate and black cherry glide into an almost endless finish with an unforgettable aftertaste. SUPERIORE.DE

"In the glass, the Recioto della Valpolicella Classico 2011 is dark and rich. It smells of brown spices, cocoa and balsamic herbs, while notes of dried citrus peel and cherries develop over time. A pleasing inner sweetness greets the palate, with pure, silky texture and racy acidity maintaining a fantastic balance, while liquid mineral rock balances rum-soaked currants and dark chocolate. The 2011 finishes with traces of medicinal wild berries and liquorice, ending incredibly long and with an exoticism that screams Quintarelli." Vinous

"A totem of the region, a breathtaking Recioto created through six months of appassimentation and almost a decade in the barrel. It is reminiscent of chinotto, alpine spruce, bitter cherry, clove, mahogany and walnut shell, with a hint of something exotic like incense and Chinese medicine cabinet. The finish is incredibly dry, sooty and almost grainy, such is the precision of the tannin structure. Captivating gait, as if you discover a new needle in a haystack of overwhelming complexity with every new sip." James Suckling

Amarone Sergio Zenato Riserva - seductive complexity. Deep bouquet of black berries and cocoa, violets and lavender. The taste with aromas of cherries, blackberries and wild berries, in the long finish the invigorating fresh impressions of medicinal herbs. A stately wine of the upper class. SUPERIORE.DE

"It is a real palate pleaser with lush notes of black cherry coulis, raspberry ganache, strawberry jam, ground anise and espresso. Fine-grained tannins frame this lively, silky red, with notes of smoke, dried herbs and spices that linger on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Sergio Zenato 2007 by Zenato is of great fascination. Truffles, tobacco, orange peel and incense give it exotic dimensions, nuances and complexity. The incredibly young 2007 will need at least a few years in the bottle, but it will always remain an opulent wine built on texture and volume. All the elements come together to create a remarkable wine that stands out for its purity and depth. This is a fabulous achievement by Zenato." VINOUS

"Tertiary aromas laden with mahogany, toasted chestnut, varnish and umami, like dried porcini rolled in coffee grind. A forceful thrust of fruit and parry of impeccably hewn tannins. An impressive wine that is as hedonistic as it is intellectual. The style is contextually dry, powerful and layered." James Suckling