Vineyards
Concentus 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, where the combination of limestone-rich soils and a temperate climate allows for excellent ripening conditions. The region benefits from cool breezes that help maintain freshness in the grapes while enhancing their aromatic intensity. Low yields further contribute to the concentration and complexity of the fruit.
Winemaking
After harvest, the grapes undergo the traditional appassimento process, where they are dried for 40 days to concentrate sugars, tannins, and flavours, enhancing the wine’s depth and richness. Fermentation takes place in small stainless steel vats at controlled temperatures, ensuring a gradual and complete fermentation process. Frequent pumping over during fermentation maximises the extraction of colour and flavour. The wine is then aged for 10 months in French oak barrels, adding further layers of structure and complexity.
Appearance
Deep ruby red with garnet reflections, showing signs of evolution while maintaining vibrancy.
Nose
Well-structured, smooth, and elegant, with pronounced notes of dried wild berries, dark cherries, and subtle hints of baking spice and tobacco, reflecting its ageing.
Palate
On the palate, Concentus offers a harmonious balance between ripe black fruit, liquorice, and warming spice, supported by velvety tannins. The maturity of the vintage introduces earthy notes, dried herbs, and a touch of balsamic, leading to a long, lingering finish with refined complexity.
Food pairing
This wine pairs beautifully with rich risottos, grilled meats, and traditional Venetian dishes. Its structure and depth also make it an excellent match for game, aged cheeses, and slow-cooked stews.
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 ageing, 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, with a strong focus on the appassimento method.
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 region.
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