Indulge in the luxurious Sant Arturo Amarone della Valpolicella Classico, a premium Italian red wine that embodies the artistry of the Veneto region. Crafted using the traditional *appassimento* method, where hand-selected grapes are air-dried to concentrate their flavors, this DOCG-certified Amarone offers a velvety texture and unparalleled depth. Expect bold notes of cherry, plum, and cranberry, balanced with hints of chocolate, oak, and a whisper of licorice. With its full-bodied structure, high alcohol content, and refined elegance, this wine pairs exquisitely with aged ribeye, hearty stews, or rich cheeses. Elevate your dining experiences with this timeless expression of Italian winemaking excellence.
Process & Profile
The production of Sant Arturo Amarone is a labor of love, rooted in the ancient *appassimento* method. After careful harvesting in October, the grapes are dried over a period of up to 120 days, concentrating their flavors and aromas. The desiccated grapes are then slowly fermented for up to 50 days, resulting in a full-bodied wine with a bold character. Aged in wooden barrels, this wine develops a complex structure and deep ruby color, showcasing notes of ripe fruit and refined tannins.
Tasting Notes
Sant Arturo Amarone captivates the senses with its remarkable depth and richness. Expect dominant flavors of black cherry, plum, and subtle oak, intertwined with whispers of cocoa and spices. On the nose, it reveals aromas of dried fruits, tobacco, and a hint of dark chocolate. The finish is long and velvety, leaving behind a balance of sweetness and acidity that lingers on the palate.
What Makes It Special
What sets Sant Arturo Amarone apart is its meticulous winemaking process and exceptional aging potential. By drying the grapes, the natural sugars and flavors are intensified, producing a wine that is both robust and elegant. This Amarone offers a harmonious blend of power and finesse, celebrated for its rich concentration and silky-smooth tannins. Perfect for wine collectors and connoisseurs, its ability to age gracefully for decades makes it a treasure to behold.
How to Enjoy
Sant Arturo Amarone is best enjoyed with rich, savory dishes that complement its bold profile. Ideal pairings include:
- Braised short ribs, roasted lamb shank, or aged ribeye steak.
- Hearty pasta dishes such as Bolognese or wild boar ragu.
- Strong cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano, Gorgonzola, or aged Gouda.
Serve at a temperature of 18–20°C (64–68°F) to let its aromatic bouquet fully develop. Whether paired with a meal or savored as a "wine for meditation," it is a luxurious choice for any occasion.
Sant Arturo Amarone is more than just a wine—it is an experience steeped in tradition, offering exceptional quality and timeless sophistication. Indulge in its bold flavors and elevate your moments with this Italian masterpiece.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sant Arturo Amarone made from?
Sant Arturo Amarone is crafted primarily from Corvina, Corvinone, and Rondinella grapes, in accordance with the traditional *appassimento* process, where the grapes are partially dried to concentrate their flavors. Occasionally, small amounts of other authorized varieties may be included.
What does Sant Arturo Amarone taste like?
The wine is full-bodied with rich and complex flavors. Expect notes of red and black fruits like cherries, black figs, and plums, accompanied by hints of chocolate, tobacco, and spices such as nutmeg. As it ages, more nuanced flavors like dried fruits, balsamic, and coffee may develop.
What foods pair well with Sant Arturo Amarone?
Sant Arturo Amarone pairs excellently with hearty dishes such as braised meats, game, stews, and roasts. It also complements aged cheeses and cured meats. Additionally, it can be enjoyed as a "meditation wine" on its own after a meal to fully appreciate its depth and complexity.
Is Sant Arturo Amarone a dry wine?
Yes, it is a dry wine despite its rich and concentrated flavors. The natural residual sugar from the drying process is balanced by high acidity and tannins, giving it a dry yet opulent profile.
How should I serve Sant Arturo Amarone?
Serve Sant Arturo Amarone at a temperature of 16-18°C (60-65°F). Use a large balloon glass to allow the wine to breathe and its aromas to fully develop. Decanting the wine for about an hour before serving is also recommended to enhance its flavors.
How long can I age Sant Arturo Amarone?
Sant Arturo Amarone has excellent aging potential. Depending on the vintage and production method, it can age 10 to 20 years or longer, during which it will develop even greater complexity and subtlety.
What is the alcohol content of Sant Arturo Amarone?
The alcohol content of Sant Arturo Amarone is typically high, often exceeding 15%, which is characteristic of Amarone wines due to the *appassimento* process used in production.
Is Sant Arturo Amarone suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
While many Amarone wines are suitable for vegetarians, it is best to verify with the producer to confirm if Sant Arturo Amarone is vegan-friendly, as some winemaking processes may involve animal-derived fining agents.
Is Amarone a fortified wine?
No, Amarone wines, including Sant Arturo Amarone, are not fortified. The high alcohol content is achieved naturally through the fermentation of the sugars concentrated during the grape-drying process.
Can Sant Arturo Amarone be used in cooking?
Yes, its robust flavor makes it an excellent choice for cooking, especially in dishes like braised meats and rich, wine-based sauces. However, its quality often makes it better suited for enjoying as a standalone wine rather than for cooking purposes.