Discover the luxurious Cesari Amarone della Valpolicella Classico, a full-bodied masterpiece from Italy's renowned Veneto region. Crafted using the traditional *appassimento* method, this wine boasts a stunning complexity derived from carefully dried Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara grapes. Its rich profile weaves together flavors of dark cherry, plum, chocolate, and licorice, complemented by hints of raisin, tobacco, and roasted nuts. Aged to perfection in French and Slavonian oak barrels, this velvety red offers balanced acidity, supple tannins, and a persistent, elegant finish. Perfect for special occasions, Cesari Amarone pairs beautifully with braised meats, risottos, or aged cheeses, embodying the opulence of Valpolicella's winemaking heritage.
Process & Profile
Cesari Amarone della Valpolicella Classico is a testament to the winemaking expertise of the Veneto region in Italy. This luxurious red wine is crafted from a blend of native Italian grape varietals: 75% Corvina, 20% Rondinella, and 5% Molinara. What sets this wine apart is its unique *appassimento* process, where the grapes are air-dried post-harvest until they concentrate into raisins, intensifying their sugar and flavor profiles. After fermentation in stainless steel tanks, the wine is aged for three years in a combination of French and Slavonian oak barrels, creating a complex and harmonious flavor profile.
Tasting Notes
Cesari Amarone delights the senses with its rich and velvety texture. The bouquet is marked by enticing aromas of cherry, prune, licorice, and subtle hints of toasted oak and vanilla. On the palate, layers of jammy dark fruit such as fig and plum are complemented by notes of chocolate, raisin, and a trace of Mediterranean herbs. Its bold tannins are polished and enveloping, leading to a long, persistent finish that lingers warmly.
What Makes It Special
Cesari Amarone stands as one of Italy's most prestigious wines, revered for its elegance and craftsmanship. The *appassimento* process ensures a unique intensity of flavor, while the meticulous barrel aging adds complexity and depth. Its ability to age gracefully for a decade or more makes it a treasure for collectors and connoisseurs alike. The wine's harmony of rich fruit, supple tannins, and balanced acidity has earned it critical acclaim, including consistent 91+ point ratings from top wine reviewers.
How to Enjoy
Cesari Amarone is a versatile wine, perfect for both celebratory occasions and intimate dinners. Best served at 16–18°C (60–64°F), it pairs beautifully with hearty dishes such as braised beef, risotto, or game meats. Its full body and rich profile also make it an excellent companion to aged cheeses or dark chocolate. For the ultimate experience, decant the wine for at least an hour before serving to allow its intricate flavors to fully unfold.
Rediscover the art of Italian winemaking with Cesari Amarone della Valpolicella Classico—a wine that embodies history, tradition, and premium craftsmanship in every glass.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin of Cesari Amarone?
Cesari Amarone comes from the Valpolicella region in Veneto, Italy, a prestigious area known for its rich winemaking history. The wine is made from local grape varieties, including Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara, cultivated in the historic Classico subregion.
What makes Amarone unique?
Amarone is crafted using the *appassimento* method, where grapes are dried after harvest to concentrate their sugars and flavors. This process gives the wine its bold, rich character and high alcohol content, typically around 15%.
What are the flavor and aroma profiles of Cesari Amarone?
This wine features bold aromas of cherry and prune, accompanied by jammy notes. Toasted nuances, hints of vanilla, and secondary notes like tobacco and cocoa emerge. On the palate, it is full-bodied, warm, and harmonious, with a long, persistent finish marked by elegant tannins.
How is Cesari Amarone aged?
The wine is aged for a total of three years in a blend of French and Slavonian oak barrels after fermentation in stainless steel tanks. This extensive aging process contributes to its complexity and smooth texture.
Is Amarone a fortified wine?
No, Amarone is not fortified. Its high alcohol levels, often exceeding 15%, result from the natural fermentation of highly concentrated sugars in the dried grapes used in its production.
How should I serve Cesari Amarone?
Amarone is best served at a temperature of 16-18°C (60-65°F). Decanting the wine for at least an hour before serving is recommended to enhance its aromas and flavors.
What foods pair well with Cesari Amarone?
This wine pairs beautifully with hearty dishes such as braised meats, roasted lamb, and aged cheeses. It also complements rich, flavorful pastas and risottos.
How long can I age Cesari Amarone?
Cesari Amarone has excellent aging potential. When stored properly, it can develop additional complexity, with flavors of tobacco, dried fruit, and balsamic notes emerging over 10-20 years or more.
What is the difference between Amarone and Amarone Riserva?
Amarone Riserva requires a minimum of four years of aging, compared to the two years for standard Amarone. Many producers, including Cesari, exceed the legal aging requirements to ensure optimal quality.
What accolades has Cesari Amarone received?
Cesari Amarone has consistently received high ratings from prestigious reviewers. For instance, the 2016 vintage scored 93 points from *Wine Enthusiast* and was recognized as an "Editor's Choice." Other vintages have similarly received ratings in the 90s, underscoring its exceptional quality.