Roccolo Grassi Amarone Della Valpolicella 2016

Veneto, Italy

Vinous 97 points!

Roccolo Grassi Amarone della Valpolicella is a classic red wine gem made from the Veneto region in the northeast of Italy. This beautiful blend of Corvinone, Corvina Grossa and Rondinella is the perfect red to enjoy with good friends over a rich meal. Roccolo Grassi was established in 1996 by Bruno Sartori and his two children Francesca and Marco. Based in Veneto, they produce wines of unique character and strong personality, which are expressive of their origins. Winemaker Marco Sartori is one of hottest talents in the region. His philosophy is very simple; yields in the vineyard are significantly reduced to obtain a fabulous fruit concentration. The 14 hectares of vines are farmed sustainably and minimal intervention takes place in the winery. The result is a collection of world class wines distinguished by their pure elegance. The blend in this vintage is Corvina 60%, Rondinella 20%, Corvinone 15%, Croatina 5%.

“From the second I tilted the glass, I knew that the 2016 Amarone della Valpolicella was a total knockout. Macerated cherries are contrasted by a whiff of tangerine that gives way to vibrant rose tones and autumnal spice. This soothes with glycerol waves of spicy red fruits complemented by cinnamon, clove and dark, dark chocolate tones. There’s tremendous balance here with bright acids and a totally sexy and exotic style. This just goes on and on and finishes structured and firm yet incredibly fresh, leaving the palate stained in concentration as violet floral tones fade. For all of its heady depth and concentration, there are only two grams per liter of residual sugar. You don’t need to save this riveting Amarone for the dessert course.”—Vinous 97 points!

Enjoy Roccolo Grassi Amarone della Valpolicella over the next 15-20 years with osso bucco, roast lamb, lasagna, and aged cheeses.