Afordable Amarone?
Speri Amarone Della Valpolacella Classico, 2001
Amarone is big red wine from the Veneto region in Northeastern Italy. While the primary grape is Corvina, Rondinella and Corvinone also contribute to this robust and elegant wine.
True Amarone is classified by the process through which the grapes are prepared. The long drying process, known as appasimento, imparts a raisiny characteristic to the wine, as well as a very subtle sweetness. Despite its high alcohol content (a wapping 15%), this wine is remarkably well balanced. Soft tannins and mild oak give way to a long dry finish on the palate.
Traditional pairings would suggest game and red meats as dining accompaniments for this wine. Personally I drank a bottle with a foot long Italian sub. I found that the wine really accented the spicy components of the sandwich. Cured meats and cheese also go well, particularly after a nice meal. The only thing missing is a beefy Maduro cigar.
This wine has sold well at my wine bar, The Iron Bridge Wine Company, at about $35 a half bottle. Not bad for good Amarone, which ranges in price from $60 to as much as a couple hundred. Bottom line: this wine is delicious and affordable and should be savored with good times and good friends.
