Wine Enthusiast calls Amarone “one of 15 icons in Italian wine”. They are certainly some of the country’s most treasured reds. Rooted in the ancient tradition of sun-drying grapes before fermentation, Amarone wines offer exceptional richness and a glorious combination of power and complexity that cellars well, too. No wonder they are sought after worldwide. This 2020 from esteemed Cantina Negrar pays tribute to 18th century poet Bartolomeo Lorenzi, whose epic poems celebrating rural life made Valpolicella wines famous.
The grapes are from the ancient, dry, stone terraces of the cool Marano Valley, where they ripen slowly. They are then air-dried for 120 days to intensify flavours. Decant early and enjoy with hearty dishes, or cellar.
Barbera is often thought as the second grape of premium Piedmont. This is a fabulous, dark, cherry and plum-scented red from a legendary vintage and a third-generation estate. Immense power and length.
From an exceptional, sunny vintage and a much sought-after family estate, this is Brunello of superb quality. Wine Advocate called it "ripe and opulent". Dark spice, with hints of chocolate and firm tannins.
