Frequently Asked Questions
Masi Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Costasera Riserva is a majestic red wine, epitomizing the richness of Venetian winemaking heritage. Crafted from indigenous Veronese grapes like Corvina, Rondinella, Molinara, and the rare Oseleta, this wine undergoes a meticulous *appassimento* process, where the grapes are dried to intensify their flavors. The result is a velvety, deep ruby-red wine with elegant aromas of ripe cherries, plums, and hints of cocoa and cinnamon. On the palate, it is full-bodied yet balanced, with silky tannins and a refined acidity that leads to a long, lingering finish. With an aging period of at least three years in fine casks, this DOCG-classified Riserva offers unparalleled complexity, making it a benchmark in the Amarone category. Perfect for pairing with rich meats, aged cheeses, or as a luxurious wine for meditation, it is a timeless representation of Italian viticulture at its finest.
Process & Profile
Crafted using the ancient *appassimento* method, this Amarone showcases exceptional dedication to quality. The grapes—primarily Corvina, Rondinella, and Oseleta—are meticulously harvested and dried for over three months in modern drying lofts. This process concentrates the sugars and flavors, resulting in a deeply complex and rich wine. After fermentation, the wine is aged for up to 30 months in Slavonian oak barrels to achieve its full-bodied character and balanced profile. The 2017 Riserva boasts a thick, deep ruby red color, with elegant and intense aromas of ripe berry fruit, dried cherries, cocoa, and warming spices. It exhibits a full-bodied structure, velvety tannins, and refreshing acidity, with a long, flavorful finish accented by marasca cherries and cinnamon.Tasting Notes
This wine is a sensory delight with a symphony of flavors:- Nose: Inviting aromas of ripe cherries, plums, and notes of cocoa, cinnamon, and fruit preserved in spirits.
- Palate: Luxuriously rich, with flavors of dried plum, pomegranate, molasses, and hints of dark chocolate. A velvety texture and bright acidity create a harmonious balance, while a lingering finish leaves notes of balsamic, spices, and firm tannins.
- Finish: Long and satisfying, with a perfect interplay of sweetness, spiciness, and bitter notes.
What Makes It Special
What sets the Masi Costasera Riserva apart is its embodiment of Valpolicella's winemaking heritage. The south-west-facing hillside vineyards capture ample sunlight, enhancing natural ripeness. The *appassimento* technique—rooted in Roman tradition—adds unparalleled depth and flavor concentration. Masi's commitment to innovation while honoring tradition makes this Amarone a benchmark in its category. Its aging potential of up to 30‚Äì35 years further solidifies its status as a collector's item.How to Enjoy
The Masi Amarone Classico Costasera Riserva is a versatile wine that shines in various settings:- Pairings: Perfect for hearty dishes such as roasted or grilled red meats, game, or flavorful cheeses like aged Parmesan. It also makes an exceptional companion for rich stews and truffle risottos.
- Serving Tips: Decant for at least an hour before serving to unlock its full aromatic and flavor potential. Serve at a temperature of 18–20°C (64–68°F).
- Occasions: Whether enjoyed as a "wine for meditation" after dinner or as part of a celebratory feast, this Amarone delivers an unforgettable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the blend of grape varieties used in this wine?
Masi Amarone Costasera Riserva is made from 70% Corvina, 15% Rondinella, 10% Oseleta, and 5% Molinara. These native grape varieties contribute to the wine's complex flavors and structure.
How is Masi Amarone Costasera Riserva made?
The wine is crafted using the traditional *appassimento* method, where grapes are dried on bamboo racks for about 120 days. This process concentrates the sugars and flavors. The wine is then aged for approximately 40 months in barrels made from Slavonian and Allier oak.
What are the tasting notes of this wine?
This wine has a deep ruby red color and offers aromas of ripe cherries, stewed plums, cocoa, and roasted coffee. On the palate, it is full-bodied and balanced, with notes of baked fruit, sweet spices, and cocoa, complemented by silky tannins and refreshing acidity.
What food pairings work well with this wine?
Masi Amarone Costasera Riserva pairs perfectly with red meats, game, roasted dishes, and mature cheeses. It can also be enjoyed as an elegant after-dinner wine.
What is the alcohol content of the wine?
The alcohol content of Masi Amarone Costasera Riserva is 15.5% by volume.
What is the appropriate serving temperature?
This wine should be served at a temperature of 18°C to 20°C to fully appreciate its flavors and aromas.
How long can this wine be aged?
Thanks to the traditional production methods and long aging process, this wine is capable of evolving over decades if stored properly. It maintains its flavor profile and structure with extended aging.
What makes Amarone della Valpolicella different from other wines?
Amarone is unique due to the *appassimento* method used to dry the grapes, concentrating their sugars and flavors. Furthermore, the wine undergoes a slow fermentation and extended aging process, which creates a powerful, rich, and complex profile, distinctive from regular Valpolicella wines.
What does "Riserva" mean in the context of this wine?
The "Riserva" designation indicates that this Amarone has been aged for a longer period than the standard Amarone. Masi Amarone Costasera Riserva undergoes at least 40 months of barrel aging, adding complexity and depth to the wine.
Can this wine be decanted?
Yes, decanting this wine is recommended to allow it to fully express its complex aromas and flavors, especially if it is from a younger vintage.
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