Amarone wine is truly special and unique in many ways. It is a wine that is highly regarded for its rich, vibrant, full-bodied, and powerful characteristics. What sets Amarone apart from other wines is the meticulous and time-consuming process that goes into making it.
The first step in making Amarone is the selection of the grapes. Typically, the Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara varieties are used, although other local grape varieties may also be included. These grapes are left to ripen on the vine until they reach a high sugar content, which is crucial for the intense flavors that Amarone is known for.
Once the grapes have been harvested, they undergo a unique drying process called appassimento. This involves laying the grapes out on straw mats or in special drying rooms for a period of time, usually around 3-4 months. During this time, the grapes lose a significant amount of water, which concentrates their flavors and sugars. The drying process also causes the grapes to shrivel, resulting in a higher skin-to-juice ratio and further intensifying the flavor profile.
After the drying process is complete, the grapes are ready to be fermented. Unlike most wines, Amarone undergoes a prolonged fermentation, often lasting for several weeks or even months. This slow fermentation allows for the extraction of more color, tannins, and flavors from the grapes. The result is a wine that is deeply colored, with a complex and layered taste.
Once fermentation is complete, Amarone is aged for an extended period of time. Traditionally, Amarone was aged in large oak barrels called botti for several years, but nowadays, smaller oak barrels and even some stainless steel tanks are also used. This aging process further enhances the wine's flavors and helps to integrate its tannins. The minimum aging requirement for Amarone is two years, but many producers choose to age it for much longer.
The final product is a wine that is incredibly rich and concentrated. Amarone wines are known for their intense flavors of dried fruits, dark chocolate, coffee, and spices, with a full-bodied and velvety texture. They often have high alcohol content, typically around 15% or higher, which contributes to their powerful and warming character.
Amarone wines are best enjoyed with rich, flavorful dishes. They pair beautifully with hearty meats such as roasted lamb or beef, as well as aged cheeses and game dishes. The bold flavors of Amarone can stand up to robust and spicy flavors, making it a versatile wine for pairing with a variety of cuisines.
What makes Amarone wine special is the meticulous and time-consuming process that goes into its production. From the careful selection of grapes to the protracted drying, fermenting, and aging, every step is aimed at creating a wine that is rich, vibrant, and full-bodied. The result is a wine that is truly unique and a true delight to the senses.