Amarone Classico Quintarelli Giuseppe DOCG 2015 75 cl.

Quintarelli produces Amarone in the best vintages, where only the very best bunches are used. The wine is made from about 60% Corvina/Corvinone, about 25% Molinara and Rondinella, along with other grape varieties. The drying process occurs naturally in small wooden crates and on mats, typically lasting until the end of January. After that, the grapes undergo a cool maceration for 20 days and are gently pressed. The must is slightly warmed, and the grapes’ own yeast cells initiate the alcoholic fermentation (45 days). The wine is then transferred to both small (barriques) and large (10,000 l.) Slavonian oak barrels, where it matures for at least 7 years and continues to ferment very slowly, eventually achieving a fine dryness before bottling.

Amarone Agricola Quintarelli is a wonderfully harmonious Amarone, full of concentration and complexity, yet also possessing finesse and delicate nuances. It starts somewhat closed in the glass but quickly develops notes of plum, dark cherry, orange peel, and a touch of cedarwood. The taste is structured and crisp, with velvety and meaty qualities. Finally, it leaves tones of preserved dark berries, spices, and a hint of vanilla. One of the world’s best Amarones from one of the world’s best producers.

Quintarelli is likely the closest you can come to a “Romanée-Conti” in Valpolicella, as the family has, for many years and across several generations, produced what may be the most prestigious and legendary wines in Valpolicella. The company was led until 2012 by the equally legendary Giuseppe Quintarelli, who had a significant influence on both the family business and wine production in Veneto as a whole.

Giuseppe Quintarelli did not hesitate to use new winemaking techniques while showing great respect for the traditions of the region. When he passed away in 2012, at the age of 84, many were curious about what would happen to the renowned winery. However, his wife Franca, their daughters Fiorenza and Silvia, and grandchildren Marco, Francesco, and Lorenzo have since taken up the challenge, and it seems they learned much from the master over the years! Not only has the family business benefited from Giuseppe Quintarelli’s expertise over the years, but he was also known for guiding and practically assisting young winemakers in the district, earning him much respect in the region.

The winery is located in San Peretto in the Negrar municipality, and at Quintarelli, craftsmanship remains the key to quality. The vineyards (12 ha.) produce a limited yield of highly concentrated grapes. Harvesting is done manually with careful selection both during picking and upon arrival at the cellar.

Wines from Quintarelli are “classic in the truest sense,” and they remain at the top of the podium in Valpolicella!