Wines from Veneto

Are you ready for the most extraordinary red wine in Italy, made from Garganega, Trebbiano toscano, Sauvignon blanc, Chardonnay, Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah, Teroldego, Croatina, Oseleta, Sangiovese and Marzemino?

Harlequin - vinified only in the very best vintages - is an oversized and ultra-modern wine that is a real blockbuster with its flavours, intensity and power. Sit back and let this wine take you on a long journey of black midnight fruits, exotic spices, toast and tar. You can't recognise the individual grape varieties, but that's not the point of this production. Instead, he focuses on the boldest and most memorable aspects of each grape - flavour, texture and power - and fuses them into a whole, which is then multiplied by a factor of 10. It's an all-encompassing experience from the first glass to the last. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with a subtly brightening rim. On the nose sultanas, rum pot, dried figs, fresh walnuts, black cherries, precious wood. On the palate with a rich use of wood, compact tannins, lots of melting and grip, comes back to latte in the final, very long." Falstaff

"Aromas of coconut, dark cherries and balsamic. The tannins are condensed and elegant, with a full body, dense palate and refreshing acidity. Fully modern style, yet precise and with the potential for aging." James Suckling

"Another super blend that allows Celestino to explore a wide range of territorial specialities. 16 grape varieties, mostly red, then 30 months in oak, great complexity on the nose, notes of blueberries, hints of herbs, nutmeg and menthol. Salty and ambery, with a spicy finish." Luca Gardini

Here comes 1st place in James Suckling's TOP wines 2024: this great wine is only released for sale nine years after the harvest. The slow drying of the fully ripe grapes gives this cru its immense power and density as well as its extraordinary character with powerful ripeness, fruit fullness, beautiful concentration and great elegance. On the palate, Bertani's Amarone demonstrates freshness, noble lightness and great dynamism. An exciting wine and for decades probably the most classic Amarone - the archetype, so to speak - of the entire appellation. SUPERIORE.DE

"A vivid ruby color with a garnet tinge and super-restrained nose of licorice, oak bark, smoke, wood, cigar box, leather, dark chocolate, crushed violets and prunes. Freshness and subtlety. Full-bodied and elegant on the palate due to ripe, filigree tannins with long acidity and a toasty, savory aftertaste. One of the great Amarones. Corvina and Rondinella. Ready to drink now, but intended for the long haul." James Suckling

A masterpiece of depth, tradition and elegance! This Amarone matures for around six years in the barrel before it sees the light of day in the bottle. The archetype of the Venetian royal wine presents itself as multi-layered and dense and of a masterly complexity. On the nose, dried fruit, dates, nuts, earthy notes and the fine flavours of dried sultanas. On the palate, this infinite depth is paired with an elegance and finesse that only the Quintarelli family can master. A red wine from a better world, where you want to linger longer! SUPERIORE.DE

"Complex aromas of cigar box, incense, black cherry fruit and bay leaves with balsamic notes. The palate is creamy, off-dry and velvety, with a full body and long, refreshing acidity. There is a lot of sucrosity and spices. A generous wine with a lush, well-balanced palate." James Suckling

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2017 is an absolute seductress and a dark beauty. It opens with a dusty bouquet of dried flowers and masses of cherry sauce, underscored by spiced oranges and hints of violet pastille. The palate is a model of purity, with crisp wild berries enlivened by tantalising acidity and a hint of dark chocolate. Crisp mineral notes emerge towards the finish. The 2017 lingers for an incredibly long time and remains completely fresh. The grippy tannins remain, while notes of dried blueberries and lavender linger throughout. The Quintarelli estate has worked hard to perfect a style that combines the magic of older vintages with a new level of freshness, and the 2017 is a big step in the right direction. Bravo." Vinous

The star from Tenuta Sant'Antonio: A rich dark ruby red, its bouquet of wild fruits, black pepper, tobacco and spices is a delight for the nose. Fruity and full-bodied, yet velvety and very sophisticated in its character - an austere, characterful and elegant Amarone, whose terrificfinish is accompanied by noble tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"It has distinct aromas of chocolate wheat and spiced plum crumble. Tart black fruits and balsamic freshness lurk in the mouth with streaks of tangy red fruits and dusty spices, supported by fine, grainy tannins. It's sweet and juicy and shows some chalky tautness on the palate, giving this big wine a desirable finesse." Decanter

"Ruby red with a tendency towards violet. The nose reveals clear notes of sour cherry, cherry, plum, blood orange and undergrowth, followed by floral notes of rose and violet. Gradually, spicy notes unfold. Full, juicy and fruity on the palate, with splendid tannins, finishing delicately bitter on the long finish." Falstaff

"The Tenuta Sant'Antonio Famiglia Castagnedi 2017 Amarone della Valpolicella Campo dei Gigli reveals a very savory character with dried fruit, lots of plum and spicy back notes that transition to tarry smoke and barbecue. The wine is full-bodied and slightly evolved due to the hot vintage conditions." Wine Advocate

"Thick and rather syrupy dried black fruits face a wall of black pepper and toasted oak on the nose, which turns to liquorice on the palate. Any subtler, more complex character waits for now for the youthful fruit and oak to clear the main stage. And that can take some time. Nevertheless, this wine is already very pleasant to drink and will give pleasure for many years to come." James Suckling

"The 2017 Amarone della Valpolicella Campo dei Gigli is intense, like opening an ash stone to reveal a wealth of dried black cherries, cinnamon sticks, incense and dried herbs. The texture is deep, with a balanced inner sweetness highlighted by vibrant acidity, while the depths of tart red fruits slowly saturate the palate with primary concentration. The 2017 finishes structured and dramatically long, making a case for further cellaring." Vinous

A monument of wine! Brilliant dark ruby colour. Fresh, silky, elegant - and majestic. Blackberry jam, violets, bittersweet chocolate, plus crushed rock and minerality. An opulent wine with fabulously polished tannins and considerable ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red colour, rich. Initially a nose of cinnamon sticks, ripe blackberries, dark chocolate, wild berry jam, precious wood, dried violet blossom, very complex. Very polished on the palate, with an oily, great texture, comes in many layers, concentrated and yet not opulent, finishing on fine coconut, will mature excellently, infinitely long." Falstaff

"Dark and dense, this reveals itself slowly, teasing fragrant accents of tarry smoke, graphite, coffee liqueur and warm spices before flavors of blackberry paste, plum cake, stemmy herbs and cocoa powder begin to unfurl. This is tightly meshed, with a core of grippy tannins creating a compact feel today. Give this some time in the cellar or extensive decanting to allow it to shine brightest." Wine Spectator

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Monte Lodoletta 2016 takes the intensity of the wine to an almost unimaginable level. This is the magic of this winery, and without a doubt this wine occupies a category that makes it completely unique in the Italian wine scale. In this classic vintage, the wine is even richer, more powerful and more concentrated. This overall intensity also carries over to the tightly wound and firm tannins. Black fruits, baked plums, tobacco, soya sauce, grilled herbs and sweet spices are generously embedded in the wine's full-bodied texture." Wine Advocate

"The 2016, which was released after the 2017 vintage because it was decided that this dense and concentrated vintage would benefit from more time in the bottle, is fuller and broader in the shoulders than the 2017 Amarone. It has more of everything - body, concentration, tannin, richness, spice... And although it has a reduced note of petrol, its flavours are still very lively, carrying hints of wild black fruits and balsam from the glass. Already tantalising, its future looks very bright." Decanter

"Turquoise-coloured in the glass, almost rimless. Aromas of cloves, coconut, graphite, dark, lush blackberries, plums and cherries. Full-bodied with great fruit concentration and a super dense and velvety palate. Extremely rich but balanced by crisp acidity and thick but dynamic and chewy tannins. Amazing finish of salted chocolate. A super-strong Amarone with grace." James Suckling

"The 2016 Amarone della Valpolicella is a sleeping giant, beckoning with dried violets, dusty blackcurrants, shaved cedar and a hint of mint. This wine is supple and cool to the touch, yet intense and savoury at its core, with an abundance of mineral-tinged dark red fruits and balsamic tones supported by a core of zesty acidity. The 2016 finishes tannic and long, gripping the palate firmly and leaving a bitter primary concentration that lingers. This wine is still a baby today and needs good cellaring, but its potential is obvious." Vinous

100% Cabernet Franc according to the traditional Ripasso method! This wine was created by Giuseppe in honour of his grandmother Franca and has a definite Quintarelli style. Dark ruby with brownish reflections. On the nose, sweet aroma of dark red fruits, damp forest floor and a hint of noble winter truffle. On the palate, highly concentrated, punchy and with beautiful suppleness and finely granulated tannin. Its dense body and immense complexity opens up depth, aromatic diversity and, in addition, a finely sweet Amarone style with every further sip! Not a playful experiment by a quality fanatic, but a serious, finesse-rich wine with a clear signature and terrific ageing potential! SUPERIORE.DE

A monument of wine! Brilliant dark ruby. Fresh, silky, elegant - and majestic. Blackberry jam, violets, bittersweet chocolate, plus crushed rock and minerality. An opulent wine with fabulously polished tannins and considerable ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"A dark, brooding red that effortlessly combines a beautiful array of aromas of cherry, blackberry pulp, dried mint and eucalyptus with fine, chiselled tannins and a rich hint of minerality - lots of smoke, fresh earth and iron. It shows concentration and power, revealing even more detail and expression as it opens in the glass, but at the same time it's an exercise in balance and restraint." Wine Spectator

"No-one else matches the Dal Forno wines for their sheer power and intensity, and even Romano himself seems reluctant to estimate how long his Amarone might last. His 2017 Amarone is a typical time capsule, showing no age whatsoever but all the elements – a bottomless depth of rich and intense but still juicy fruit, coursing acidity and mouth-puckering tannins – are there in abundance and somehow maintain an astonishing harmony." Decanter

"This wine is dark, sultry and almost animalic. Crushed autumn leaves and earth tones open the experience, giving way to masses of macerated black cherries, cedar chips, spiced biscuits and a refreshing hint of camphor. It floods the palate with a velvety texture while maintaining a fantastic energy as the bracing acidity adds unexpected vibrancy and the tart wild berries slowly saturate. The tannins are structured yet sweet and the wine remains remarkably fresh, almost crisp, as hints of inner rose and balsamic herbs slowly fade. Honestly, I can't believe the 2017 was made at 16% alcohol because it's just so drinkable and charming." Vinous

"The current edition. A tour de force, despite the sheer morass of palate-staining fruit. The malty oak is evident, but acts as a welcome addition to tame and compress the tangle of coffee grounds, beef stock, mint, leather varnish and saturated dark cherry liqueur in a cloak of tension and power. The grapes are dried for 70-80 days. This may seem obvious at first glance, but when you work it out in the glass and on the inner gums, the many layers become apparent. A wine that changes shape and beguiles as it wrestles with the senses. Excellent." James Suckling

100% Cabernet Franc made according to the traditional Ripasso method! This wine was created by Giuseppe in honour of his grandmother Franca and has a clear Quintarelli style. Dark ruby colour with brownish reflections. Sweetish aroma of dark red fruit, damp forest soil and a hint of fine winter truffle on the nose. Highly concentrated on the palate, powerful and with beautiful suppleness and finely granulated tannins. Its dense body and immense complexity reveal depth, a variety of flavours and a fine, sweet Amarone style with every sip! Not a playful experiment by a quality fanatic, but a serious, finesse-rich wine with a clear signature and terrificageing potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2015 Cabernet Alzero is loaded with varietal character, bursting from the glass with a dark blend of black fruits, savory herbs, pencil lead and crushed stone. This is velvety smooth, with juicy acidity to balance and a core of mineral-tinged red and blue fruits complemented by confectionary spice. It leaves the palate reeling with youthful tension as hints of blood orange swirl under an air of violet inner florals. Dusty tannins resonate throughout. The energy within the 2015 is off the charts and provides a perfect counterpoint to its internal intensity. Bury this one deep." Vinous

Every year, Fratta is a groundbreaking blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot that you can't help but love. Fratta proved the Veneto's potential for winemaking when it was first produced in 1977, the year Angela Maculan (a second daughter) was born. Deep, complex fruit bouquet, rounded off with fine sweet spices, tobacco and coffee. On the palate, beautiful lines and a sharp focus with dry mineral tones framing dark fruits, dried cherries and exotic spices. Fratta is a bold and big wine and there is no doubting the profound elegance of this highly personalised expression. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, almost impenetrable violet colour with ruby. Very fragrant nose of juicy cherries, cassis, some red pepper, violets and earth. Lots of sweet fruit on the palate, embedded in grippy, hard tannins, spicy, almost savoury, on bitter chocolate, still a little overhanging wood on the finish, still quite harsh on the final." Falstaff

"A deep and dense nose of redcurrants and black cherries and a hint of slightly charred oak. Medium bodied with a cool and crystalline feel on the palate. The tannins are still firm, but the super-pure fruit pushes through beautifully. Best from 2025." James Suckling

"Dark and balsamic in the glass, the 2018 Fratta displays aromas of crushed blackberry and wild blueberry accompanied by lavender, clove and camphor. This wine is supremely elegant and refined, with a polished wave of ripe red and blue fruits supported by a core of vibrant acidity, while cooling mineral tones provide a breezy lift towards the finish. This heady experience is emphasised by sweet tannins and a slightly bitter spiciness, while the 2018 finishes long and classically structured. The inner harmony that Maculan has captured here is breathtaking." Vinous

"A traditional and complex Bordeaux from Veneto. Notes of blackberry jam, black peppercorns, a hint of marjoram and nutmeg. Salty and fruity on the palate, with a spicy finish." Luca Gardini

Capo di Stato has long been a legend thanks to its top quality and history. The cuvée of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbech was created by Conte Loredan Gasparini. A wine rich in finesse in the classic Bordeaux style, dense and of outstanding structure with flavours of spices and red fruits. Fascinatingly ripe tannins, skilfully integrated into the new French barrique in which the wine was matured for two years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, bright, dark ruby red colour. Great expression on the nose, fine and fragrant, on elderberries, ripe cassis, with fine mint, some earth and leather in the background, inviting. Great juiciness and freshness on the palate, tightly woven, salty tannins accompany the course, elegant and clear until the long final. Still young at the moment, put it away and enjoy fully in a few years." Falstaff

"A spicy red showing mulberries, paprika, chilis and sour cherries on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied with chalky tannins. Lots of texture. pepat the end." James Suckling

Brigaldara's Amarone Riserva is a wine born from the desire to interpret Valpolicella in its most original form. The strictly selected grapes that form its basis are chosen from the best vineyards in order to maximise the potential of the estate's own vineyards in Valpolicella.

Garnet red in colour, with aromas of preserved fruit, spices, sour cherries and hints of tobacco and cocoa. Brigaldara's Riserva is a large, concentrated "old-school" Amarone with a good dose of residual sugar and volatile acidity, which give the wine its unmistakable style and lend it plenty of complexity. This uncompromising and rich Amarone hits all the right notes: Mocha, old leather, smoke, tobacco and liquorice are just some of the exciting components of its long, personality-rich and distinctive finish. An energetic wine with a balance between fruit and power, which plays with its class and depth and has secured a place in the appellation's list of best wines thanks to its complex and deep tertiary flavours. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, shining, noble ruby red with a subtly brightening rim. Elegant wood on the nose, ripe berry fruit, dried tomato, comes in several waves, incense, cherries, raspberries, very complex. Very elegant on the palate, with notes of black tea, tightly woven tannins, lots of juiciness and fruit, extremely elegant Amarone with plenty of verve." Falstaff

"Very dark ruby in colour. Interesting, dense and lifted nose of peppery cherry, damson and plum, with a hint of pine and creaminess from what I suspect is oak. Smooth and well balanced. Almost defies its 16%. On the palate, it doesn't come across as bulky, and it has the right amount of supple tannins. A little warmth on the finish, but without the often distracting sweetness that this type of wine usually has." Jancis Robinson

"This wine gracefully combines taut, sculpted tannins with a tarry minerality and a detailed flavour profile of dried cherries, plum jam, tobacco and cocoa nibs. Medium-bodied and silky on the palate, with an orange peel acidity that cleanses the finish." Wine Spectator

"A delicious, liquid Riserva with beautiful dried fruit and nutty, cedar-like influences. Also floral notes and dried peel. Full and silky, with a residue of red, savoury tannin coming through at the end. Very pretty now, but it will age for a long time." James Suckling

"Aromas of black plum and spice cake rise from the glass of this rich and heady Amarone. As the wine progresses, notes of dark chocolate and espresso follow through to dried thyme and violet notes. The rounded and rich tannins provide a structured and straightforward finish, while on the palate the tart red and dried black fruits mingle with sweet spices, leading to an earthy finish." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2013 Amarone della Valpolicella Riserva San Floriano smolders up from the glass with a smoky blend of dried black cherries, blood orange and grilled herbs. This is a perfect mixture of elegance and purity, with silken textures and polished red fruits flowing across a lively stream of acidity. It’s youthfully dense and powerful yet also restrained, finishing with a web of fine-grained tannin that clamps down hard as hints of licorice and sour orange slowly taper off. It will take a good deal of time for the 2013 to come fully into focus, but it will be worth the wait. In 2013, the Riserva hailed entirely from the Case Vecie vineyard." Vinous

Three years after the Annata, Romano and his sons launch a small edition of the same vintage in large formats. As every year, the secret star of the house gives the Dominator in Dal Forno style. Dark and dense, it reveals an intense bouquet with marmalade-like aromas of red and dark fruits, alongside which spices and wood, tobacco and chocolate echo. At the same time, the youthful and stormy taste is an overwhelming demonstration of power. SUPERIORE.DE

"A very rich and spicy nose of kirsch, sweet morello cherries, spice box, hazlenuts and vanilla beans with dried dark cherry cake and lots of cedar, too. Full body, sweet fruit, vibrant acidity, ripe and round tannins and a fruit-forward finish. Always excellent." James Suckling

Crosara Breganze 2017 is a textbook Merlot: full of ripe dark fruits, blackberry pie, liquorice, chocolate, toasted oak and grilled herbs. Offering superb inner sweetness, it is both powerful and elegant, with a lush, super-soft mouthfeel. Pleasingly, a wonderfully focused mineral component saves the wine from ever being overdone. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep nose with tapenade and olives on top of the minty blackberries, tar and black spices. Very compact and dense on the palate, with very firm tannins and fresh, medium acidity. A little tight and chewy, with a hint of bitter chocolate in the finish. Give it some time. Try in 2024." James Suckling

"The 2017 Crosara is deep and sweetly scented with violet and lavender perfumes giving way to black currants. This is textural and velvety in feel, with ripe red and black berries complemented by sweet spice and vibrant acidity. It tapers off long and floral with grippy tannins framing the expression nicely, and a twang of sour citrus perfectly completes the expression. The Crosara is a varietal Merlot from partially dried grapes." Vinous

Three years after the Annata, Romano and his sons launch a small edition of the same vintage in large formats. Dark and dense, it reveals an intense bouquet with marmalade-like aromas of red and dark fruits, alongside which spices and wood, tobacco and chocolate echo. At the same time, the youthful, stormy taste is an overwhelming demonstration of power. SUPERIORE.DE

"A harmonious Valpolicella in a richer style, displaying a lovely range of plumped black cherry, star anise, espresso crema, cured tobacco and fragrant smoke notes. The sinewy tannins are well-meshed, but lend weight and definition, and the lightly juicy acidity keeps this focused through to the lasting finish." Wine Spectator

"A remarkably concentrated red, redolent of dark-cherry ice cream, stuffed with chocolate-chip flakes that turn into meatier, earthier nuances of steak tartar and forest floor. Full-throttle and lavishly chewy, the tannins pucker all sides of the mouth with mesmerizing intensity; nevertheless they remain polished and acutely detailed, like an extravagant, wool-woven, Moroccan veil." James Suckling

"This is a terrific wine that stood out - and stood tall - despite the fact that it was tasted alongside some of Dal Forno's most important vintages of the top-shelf Amarone. If that's not a full-on recommendation, I don't know what is. The 2013 Valpolicella Superiore Monte Lodoletta oozes forth with thick concentration and an inky black color. The mouthfeel is thick and impenetrable, and the senses are treated to a long succession of black fruit, tar, spice, smoke, mesquite and barbecue flavors. The wine is full-bodied and very opulent, but it carries that massive intensity with grace and precision. This Valpolicella Superiore is very nicely done." Wine Advocate

"From one of the most iconic wineries in the Orientale, this is aged for two years in oak and a further three in bottle. A proper meditation wine, great with game, strong cheeses or a cigar. It has a huge nose of stewed red fruits, ethereal bramble forest fruits and blackberry jam. Generous, with spicy, bitter cherry-stone freshness. Full-bodied with a rich, intense, spicy undertone." Decanter

As every year, the star of the house gives the Dominator in the Dal-Forno style. Dark and dense, it reveals an intense bouquet with jammy aromas of red and dark fruits, alongside spices and wood, tobacco and chocolate. At the same time, the youthful, stormy flavour is an overwhelming demonstration of power. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2014 is a unique interpretation of Dal Forno's Valpolicella Superiore Monte Lodoletta. It is a remarkably beautiful wine, showing crushed ripe strawberries and plums with cinnamon, cloves, vanilla pods and a cooling hint of mint. The textures are velvety and coat everything they touch with the concentration of glycerine fruit, yet come across as tangy and vibrant, contrasting with rich notes of tart blackberry and savoury spice. At times the Monte Lodoletta is almost savoury, especially in its long, delicious finish, which lingers with notes of cherry stones and herbs. This atypical but really pleasant expression is the result of the extremely difficult 2014 vintage, when hail damaged and reduced the harvest in the lower-lying vineyards, followed by rain from August to September. As a result, Dal Forno decided not to produce its Amarone and instead to focus entirely on Valpolicella. The result is a wine that no Dal Forno fan should miss out on." Vinous

"A beautiful, sophisticated red wine with flavours of dried berries, plums, flowers and cedar wood. Full body and a flavourful finish. Extremely refined and polished, more so than many previous vintages. Already beautiful, but it needs another year or two to develop." James Suckling

The small location near the church of San Lorenzo is a small valley surrounded by unspoilt nature - a mystical place where monks lived for centuries. The microclimate in this area is unique. The vineyard benefits from the influence of the surrounding forest, which, in addition to supplying silty-clay nutrients, ensures important temperature fluctuations, so that it is often very hot during the day and very cool in the evening.

These unique conditions allow the fruit to ripen optimally and give off generous layers of black, plummy flavours, blackberries and blackcurrants. The wine is immediately soft and generous in texture and spans a wide range of ripe red and blue fruits without losing any of its energy. The long and colourful final with its superbly integrated acidity leaves the mouth watering, while sweet tannins, black raspberry and inner flowers linger for a long time. A truly great wine - powerful and enigmatic at the same time. The production is 5,000 bottles. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep ruby red colour with a dark core. Opens on the nose with notes of mint and eucalyptus, some cardamom, then a fine aroma of blackberries, plums and sweet tobacco. Powerful, fresh and juicy on the palate, unfolds with present, dense tannins, spans a wide arc, savoury, long finish." Falstaff

"It comes from the south-east and south-west facing plots of the 12-hectare Carmenere vineyard and is only produced in the best vintages. Notes of pepper, violets and smoke emerge from the creamy, dark fruity body. It is dense and compact, a fine wine that is not overly concentrated and offers beautiful violet-coloured fruit with floral nuances." Decanter

"The 2018 Oratorio di San Lorenzo Riserva is restrained but wonderfully floral, almost dusty, with peppery strawberry and rose accompanied by a hint of sweet spice. It is silky and pure in style with a pretty inner sweetness complicated by a core of vibrant acidity, while perfumed inner flowers and depths of dark red fruit settle on the senses. The wine is well-structured, with sweet tannins and a long finish that leaves hints of tart forest fruits and savoury spice, fading slowly. Although quite fine, its underlying power promises long and consistent ageing." Vinous

"Superb intensity with a classic nose of sandalwood and chilli chocolate, along with racy redcurrants and olives. Medium to full body with juicy and silky tannins that linger with the fruit on the long, delicious finish. Lots of polish." James Suckling

"The Inama 2018 Colli Berici Carmenere Riserva Oratorio di San Lorenzo shows a lot of freshness with menthol and herbal nuances, without the mouthfeel being too heavy. The risk with Carménère is that it can sometimes taste green, but this beautiful wine transforms these flavours into a very Mediterranean bouquet with persistent softness and texture." Wine Advocate

As every year, the secret star of the house gives the Dominator in Dal-Forno style. Dark and dense, it reveals an intense bouquet with marmalade-like aromas of red and dark fruits, alongside which spices and wood, tobacco and chocolate echo. At the same time, the youthful, stormy taste is an overwhelming demonstration of power. SUPERIORE.DE

"A compact, focused red, this presents pretty violet, medicinal herb and anise notes on the nose as it slowly expands -- flavors that are more subdued at first on the palate. This is supported by dense, plushly textured tannins, flavors of mulled cherry, dark chocolate and amaro, loamy earth and smoke that are slowly revealed, gaining momentum and lingering on the long finish. Give this some air or time in the glass to allow it to shine brightest." Wine Spectator

"Pungent nose of violets, Amarena cherries, dried figs and slightly charred oak. With air, some toffee notes and pressed flowers emerge. Not so much full-bodied as full-bodied, with silky, fine and polished tannins. Still very young and powerful at the moment. Shows exceptional quality. To be tasted from 2024." James Suckling

"The 2017 Valpolicella Superiore Monte Lodoletta reminds me of all the desserts, spices and sweets you experience at Christmas. A range of medicinal cherries, plum sauce, ginger biscuits, cloves, cinnamon and dried roses are captivating. The wine has enormous depth, but at the same time it has fantastic freshness. The brilliant acidity gives it an energy rarely found in Valpolicella, enlivening the crisp red fruits and pretty flowers within. The 2017 finishes dramatically long and perfumed, with sour blackberries, currants and a bitter hint of cocoa. It far exceeds expectations for a Valpolicella, with the power and flavours of an Amarone, but with a vibrancy that allows it to hold its own at the dinner table." Vinous

La Poja from the vineyard of the same name is a great terroir wine in which Allegrini does not dry the grapes. Made from the indigenous Corvina grape variety, this red wine opens with inviting aromas of ripe black-skinned berries, cedar wood and spices. The elegantly structured, full-bodied palate offers spiced blackberries, liquorice and black pepper alongside fine-grained tannins. Dynamic, precise and very elegant in all its components, it offers maximum enjoyment and promises a terrific development. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, rich ruby colour. Opens with notes of fresh red cherries, some blackcurrant, but is also somewhat closed. Lots of velvety, well-integrated tannins, plus some milk chocolate with redcurrant, pithy, spans a wide arc, savoury." Falstaff

"The 2018 La Poja opens slowly in the glass as notes of crushed ashen stone and savory herbs give way to crushed cherries and blueberries. This is a decidedly delicate and finessed style. Brisk acidity enlivens its tart wild berry fruits as plum and dark chocolate notes evolve toward the close. The 2018 leaves a coating of fine tannins to linger, finishing with admirable length yet structured. Always a standout, La Poja is a varietal Corvina made entirely from fresh (not dried) grapes." Vinous

"Attractive aromas of dark raspberry jam, dried strawberries and figs with hints of dark chocolate, flowers and orange rind. Medium-to full-bodied with very silky tannins and lovely dryness to the mid-palate. Impressive concentration and length, showing a very long, persistent finish with juicy black cherries and bitter chocolate at the end. Nothing sweetish here." James Suckling

"Aromas of black cherry and plum combine with sandalwood, clove, allspice and savory herbs to woo you into the glass. Elegant, refined, structured and full in body, this wine is pure class. The dark-hued fruit flavors are integrated with the savory elements of the wine, where each plays a key role. The star of the show is on the finish where a distinct minerality reminiscent of chalk stands firm with a lift of acidity around it." Wine Enthusiast

"This 2018 La Poja is super-bright and herbal, with cool, sapid black and red berries accompanied by balsam, violet and lavender overtones. Precise and vertical yet silky-soft and succulent, it perfectly balances high acidity with creamy intensity, and needs more time to show its best." Decanter

Masari only brings its famous Merlot to the cellar and bottle in the best years. Dark, deep garnet red in colour. Aromas of black, ripe fruit with spices, balsamic herbs, aniseed and liquorice on the nose. Well and firmly structured on the palate with silky tannins and a wonderful mouthfeel. Despite its maturity, it appears much younger as it has a harmonious acid wire on the finish. 100% Merlot - 100% terroir. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby-garnet colour with a brightening rim. Impressive, rich nose of ripe blackberries, plums and preserved cherries, with some sandalwood. Multi-layered and full-bodied on the palate, ripe berry fruit, especially blackberry and dark currant, opens up with grippy, dense tannins, full-bodied pressure on the final." Falstaff

"This top wine from the Masari winery is made from 100% Merlot and is only produced in vintages that bring out the best in this wine. The wine has spicy aromas of dark plums around a core of sandalwood, cloves, liquorice and tobacco. The velvety tannins glide across the palate, while flavours of preserved cherry, chocolate, aniseed and black tea combine and finish with soft and gentle lightness." Wine Enthusiast

"The highly aromatic Monteplugo 2015 seduces with a blend of crushed blackberries and redcurrants lifted by mentholated herbs, sweet spices and a hint of violet candy. On the palate, it flows with textures of pure silk and polished red and blue fruits. The cooling acidity provides a lovely inner freshness. Notes of cherry combine with chalky mineral tones and a hint of blood orange as the 2015 finishes long and colourful, with just a hint of fine tannin to frame the experience. The Monteplugo shows plenty of sexy oak while retaining the core of the Merlot grape variety. Well done." Vinous

"A deep, brooding nose of black cherries and blackcurrants with nuances of bright black cardamom and black peppercorns. Apples too. Full-bodied with a dense fruit core and fine, slightly firm tannin and a long, flavourful finish. Beautiful intensity and focus. So well structured. This wine is very enjoyable to drink now, but can be cellared for a few more years." James Suckling

This great wine is only released for sale nine years after the harvest: The slow drying of the fully ripe grapes gives this cru its immense strength and density as well as its extraordinary character with powerful ripeness, fruit fullness, beautiful concentration and great elegance. On the palate, Bertani's Amarone demonstrates freshness, noble lightness and great dynamism. An exciting wine and for decades probably the most classic Amarone - the archetype, so to speak - of the entire appellation. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, very intense ruby colour. Opens with light mineral notes, followed by preserved cherries and rich red berry fruit, with fine blood orange in the background. Very precise attack and finish, elegant cherry fruit, grippy, dense tannins, opens up in many layers, fine enamel, already easy to drink, very juicy, great development potential." Falstaff

"Medium garnet red colour. There's so much going on here on the nose! Fruit and dried spices. The next time I'm in an Indian restaurant with a good wine list, I want to try an Amarone. Really very complex and exciting. So fresh and clean! Dry finish. So different from the commercial Amarone norm. Really quite exciting." Jancis Robinson

"The 2012 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico takes its time to open up in the glass, slowly evolving with a rich blend of crushed black cherries complemented by dusty purple flowers and exotic spices. The palate is silky smooth but with cooling minerality and vibrant acids that give an energetic feel, while a saturation of red fruits and fine tannins emerge towards the finish. The 2012 finishes lightly textured with an echo of balsamic spice and bitter cocoa notes still lingering - a fantastic and truly harmonious rendition of Bertani's Amarone Classico." Vinous

"This wine is pure in its fruit, earnestness and joy. It opens with aromas of vibrant red plum, macerated red cherries and raspberries followed by cocoa powder, oolong tea and dried violets. Each sniff of the glass brings a new aroma. The wine is earth-driven on the palate, with tobacco and dried red and black fruits blending well with mixed herbs, savory spices and elegant tannins, all leading to a fresh acidity that makes the wine pop on the finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Wow, what a complex bouquet, with a base of dried cherries that is spiced up with a hint of mild coffee and walnuts. There are also dried flowers, wild herbs and spices such as tarragon and cloves. Subtle hints of dried banana and apricot. The palate is full-bodied, very smooth, intense and balanced, with firm, spicy tannins that drive everything forward. Long, long finish. It's nice to taste it now, but this wine, already almost ten years old, will be in your cellar for a long time." James Suckling

The name Tre Terre refers to the origin of the grapes for the Quintarelli family's new masterpiece: they come from the municipalities of Negrar, Marano and Sant'Ambrogio. Its style, with its more pronounced tannins, spiciness and tangy acidity, differs greatly from the winery's classic Amarone range. Red cherries and herbs come to the fore, and overall it has an astonishing minerality and objectivity for Amarone, which makes it more recognisable as an aristocratic Barolo than a more powerful Amarone. Very idiosyncratic in its interpretation, but with its rough edges as always in a class of its own! SUPERIORE.DE

"You said Quintarelli and you said Valpolicella, an Amarone with four quarters of nobility that has traced the history of the type from the vineyard of the same name. Nose of cherries in alcohol, notes of liquorice and mint. Spicy-salty tannins on the palate, very persistent." Luca Gardini

This great wine is only released for sale nine years after the harvest: The slow drying of the fully ripe grapes gives this cru its immense strength and density as well as its extraordinary character with powerful ripeness, fruit fullness, beautiful concentration and great elegance. On the palate, Bertani's Amarone demonstrates freshness, noble lightness and great dynamism. An exciting wine and for decades probably the most classic Amarone - the archetype, so to speak - of the entire appellation. SUPERIORE.DE

"Complex bouquet characterised by red and blue fruits, wild cherry, also wonderfully floral with violets and rose petals. Grippy and elegant on the palate with a terrificattack thanks to the virile freshness and energy, incredibly mineral and gripping in the mid-palate. A great arc of tension." Weinwisser

"Brilliant ruby colour, sparkling, slightly brightening rim. Very clear and precise, flavours of finely ripened cherry and plum, fine spice. Firm, very fine-meshed tannins, has very good tension, juicy." Falstaff

"The 2013 Amarone della Valpolicella initially shows a generous and exuberant style with all kinds of black fruits, tar, spices and a hint of saltiness. But this vintage is also characterised by a particular strength and power, expressed in firm tannins and a solid structural backbone that is best displayed in cooler vintages like this one. The 2013 offers linear power and determination and will certainly stand up to long bottle ageing." Wine Advocate

"This classic Amarone exudes a robust essence of dark fruit and earthy undertones reminiscent of a rich oak forest and worn leather. On the palate, it reveals a captivating story of ripe cherries, plums and a hint of spice, culminating in a velvety finish that lingers like a timeless song." Wine Enthusiast

"A great, dense core of mixed dried berries, along with notes of caramel and a mix of mild Indian spices, from coriander to mace. Full-bodied with a liqueur-like pearl of fruit running through the long, long finish with ample but well-integrated tannins. Excellent and so fresh." James Suckling

"Tenuta Novare, a blend of Corvina Veronese and Rondinella, matured for 7 years in large Slavonian barrels, followed by a year in the bottle, an example of classicism and moderation. Blackberry plum on the nose, a hint of liquorice powder, then eucalyptus. Salty minerality with a balsamic finish." Luca Gardini

Three years after the Annata, Romano and his sons launch a small edition of the same vintage in a magnum bottle. Brilliant dark ruby. Fresh, silky, elegant - and majestic. Blackberry jam, violets, bittersweet chocolate, plus crushed rock and minerality. An opulent wine with fabulously polished tannins and considerable ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Impenetrable ruby with a tendency towards black, violet rim. In the nose of graphite, incense, only slightly of blackberries and cassis, seems a bit closed. On the palate incredibly dense, concentrated, multi-layered, at the same time gripping and taut, enormously fine-meshed tannin, has a lot of dark berry fruit, reverberates for a very long time, finishes powerful and imposing." Falstaff

"A velvety, full-bodied version, loaded with blackberry coulis, baked black cherry and tar-tinged smoke flavors that ripple across the palate. Offers lovely accents of dried mint, tobacco, iron and anise that echo on the firm finish. A powerhouse, with plenty in reserve." Wine Spectator

"It's not showy on the nose but is super-attractive, and it just grows more so the more time you spend with it. On the palate it's rich, deep, magnificently tannic and long - an absolutely unbridled Amarone, yet at the same time of extraordinary resonance, authority and subtlety. An Amarone masterclass!" Decanter

"The 2012 Amarone della Valpolicella Monte Lodoletta is a beautifully complete wine, even at this young stage in its life. You feel the youth of the wine in the tightness of the tannins and in the finely knit texture of its concentrated flavor profile. The big surprise is the wine's fresh acidity that has been carefully safeguarded despite the heat of the vintage and the drying process so deftly executed at this landmark estate. The wine shows no sign of oxidation or evolution, not yet. There is intricate fruit layering with cherry, blackberry, spice and mesquite delivered with such precision, that level of detail defies the very bold and opulent essence of the wine. It has only just started its evolutionary journey." Wine Advocate

"There is a massive amount of pleasure to be found in the 2012 Amarone della Valpolicella Monte Lodoletta. It blends elegance with power while contrasting rich dark fruits against sweet herbal tones and spices to create a seductive expression from start to finish. Cherry and plum sauce, lavender, mint and sage can all be found upon first pour, yet it’s the developing notes of rum cake, mocha and licorice that complete the picture perfectly. This is velvety and pliant in texture yet not weighty, all balanced by juicy acids, tart fruits and just a hint of grippy tannins. Dark chocolate mixed with salty minerals under an air of sweet violet florals resonates throughout the finale. All of that said, the endnote here is remarkably fresh, as the 2012 never becomes tiring. This is firing on all cylinders yet with medium-term cellaring potential - but good luck keeping your hands off of it today." Vinous

"A decadent nose of treacle tart, chocolate, tar, tons of black fruit such as blackberries and mulberries and even ash and licorice. A dense, layered mouthfeel makes for a full-bodied palate that's explosive yet somehow so refined and pretty all at the same time. The finish goes on and on." James Suckling

A masterpiece of depth, tradition and elegance! This Amarone matures for around six years in the barrel before it sees the light of day in the bottle. The archetype of the Venetian royal wine presents itself as multi-layered and dense and of a masterly complexity. On the nose, dried fruit, dates, nuts, earthy notes and the fine flavours of dried sultanas. On the palate, this infinite depth is paired with an elegance and finesse that only the Quintarelli family can master. A red wine from a better world, where you want to linger longer! SUPERIORE.DE

"Complex aromas of cigar box, incense, black cherry fruit and bay leaves with balsamic notes. The palate is creamy, off-dry and velvety, with a full body and long, refreshing acidity. There is a lot of sucrosity and spices. A generous wine with a lush, well-balanced palate." James Suckling

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2017 is an absolute seductress and a dark beauty. It opens with a dusty bouquet of dried flowers and masses of cherry sauce, underscored by spiced oranges and hints of violet pastille. The palate is a model of purity, with crisp wild berries enlivened by tantalising acidity and a hint of dark chocolate. Crisp mineral notes emerge towards the finish. The 2017 lingers for an incredibly long time and remains completely fresh. The grippy tannins remain, while notes of dried blueberries and lavender linger throughout. The Quintarelli estate has worked hard to perfect a style that combines the magic of older vintages with a new level of freshness, and the 2017 is a big step in the right direction. Bravo." Vinous