Allegrini : Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2016

An exceptional Amarone wine with delicate and rich aromas

The estate

Allegrini, the largest producer in the Valpolicella appellation, is one of the most prestigious Italian references in the world.

Established since the 16th century, the Allegrini family is at the head of a vineyard comprising more than 100 hectares and spread over the most iconic crus of the Valpolicella appellation, in Italy.

The Allegrini family's Amarone wines reflect a unique know-how passed down from generation to generation and showcases their perfect mastery of the Appassimento (passerillage) process. They have a strong identity and a unique signature style.

The vineyard

The vineyards are located in the heights of the Valpolicella Classico appellation, between 180 and 280 metres above sea level. The vines are 35 years old on average and are predominantly planted on volcanic clay-limestone soils.

The vintage

The 2016 vintage was marked by generally satisfactory weather conditions despite a few rainy spells during spring. These conditions resulted in the taking of rapid and thorough preventive measures to protect the vines.

From the middle of June onwards, nice weather set in throughout the summer months, with temperatures not exceeding 35°C.

The temperature variations between daytime and nighttime, particularly during the veraison period, combined with sufficient water reserves, favoured an increase in sugar concentration while still maintaining acidity levels and enabling the specific aromatic characteristics of each grape variety to fully develop.

Harvested in optimal weather conditions, the fully ripe grapes herald an exceptional vintage, remarkable for its balance and elegance.

The vinification and ageing

Hand-picked at the end of September, the grapes are dried naturally for 3 to 4 months in a special facility so that they lose 40 to 45% of their original weight.

At the beginning of January, the grapes are destemmed and gently pressed.

A 25-day maceration with daily pumping over is followed by fermentation in temperature-controlled steel tanks.

The wines are aged for 18 months in oak barrels and are then blended for 7 months before being bottled. A final 14-month bottle ageing stage is carried out before the wine is put on the market.

The blend

This Allegrini Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2016 is a blend of Corvina Veronese (45%), Corvinove (45%), Rondinella (5%) and Oseleta (5%).

The tasting

This Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2016 is seductive due to its richness and aromatic palette, combining notes of ripe fruit and spices with a beautiful acidity and refined tannins.

Food and wine pairing

Allegrini's Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2016 will perfectly complement game, roasted and grilled meats and mature cheeses.

The distinctive flavour of Amarone, stemming from its unique production method, will pair with the sweet and sour flavours of Asian and Middle Eastern dishes beautifully.

Service

For an optimal tasting experience, serve at 18°C, having opened the bottle an hour before.

Cellaring

Allegrini's Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2016 can be cellared until around 2036, enabling it to express its full aromatic range.