Amarone Classico DOCG Terre Di San Zeno 2016

Vineyards and winemaking

Amarone Classico Terre Di San Zeno is a blend of 65% Corvina, 20% Rondinella, and 15% indigenous varieties, including Molinara and Dindarella. The grapes are carefully selected from vineyards in the Fumane valley, known for its volcanic soil and ideal microclimate. Following harvest, the grapes undergo the traditional appassimento process, where they are dried on wooden crates for up to four months. This method concentrates the sugars and flavours, allowing for a rich and complex wine.

Once the grapes are dried, they are crushed at the beginning of the year, with fermentation taking place over an extended period due to the cooler temperatures of February and March. The wine is aged in small oak casks, followed by a careful bottle aging phase that enhances its depth and complexity.

Appearance

This Amarone exhibits an intense deep red garnet colour with tinges of orange, indicative of its maturity and richness.

Nose

The bouquet is complex yet clean, featuring aromas of sour cherries in brandy, wild berries, liquorice, anise, and spices. This aromatic profile reveals a harmonious blend of fruit and spice, culminating in a pleasant, intense aftertaste.

Palate

On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and structured, showcasing flavours of dark fruit complemented by spicy undertones. The balance of acidity and silky tannins creates a smooth, lingering finish, with nuances of dark chocolate and a hint of smokiness from the oak ageing.

Food pairing

Amarone Classico Terre Di San Zeno pairs beautifully with roasts, game, and red meats, whether cooked or raw. It is also exceptional when enjoyed with aged cheeses, both firm and spicy. For optimal enjoyment, serve at room temperature in large, round crystal glasses to fully appreciate its unique characteristics.

Background story

Corteforte, established in 1989 by Carlo Maria Cerutti, is located in the historically significant Fumane valley, north of Verona. The estate originated in the early 1400s as a fortified structure with four towers, evolving over time into a noble residence that now features a boutique hotel, restaurant, and winery, all surrounded by 3 hectares of premium vineyard plots.

No expense was spared in creating Corteforte. The winery employs organic and sustainable practices and boasts a vast underground storage area for extensive bottle aging, despite its modest annual production of around 20,000 bottles. The estate features a variety of barrel sizes and a wide range of winemaking techniques that focus on the dried grape process. Critics regard Corteforte as a jewel in the crown of the Amarone region, but the true essence of its wines lies in their authenticity, finesse, and character. From the impressive Valpolicella Ripasso to the exemplary single vineyard Amarones, Corteforte continues to set a high standard for excellence in the Amarone region.