Wines Amarone della Valpolicella Brigaldara - Amarone della Valpolicella - 2017

Viniou Reviews

The Brigaldara Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 2017 from Veneto is an exquisite Italian red wine noted for its complexity and depth. This wine, produced from a blend typical of Amarone, primarily features Corvina, Corvinone, and Rondinella grape varieties. The 2017 vintage, an excellent year for Veneto, endowed the wine with rich, concentrated flavours. Amarone wines are known for their unique production process, which involves the appassimento method—where grapes are partially dried to intensify their sugars and flavour concentration before fermentation. This technique results in a wine of remarkable intensity, full-bodied and velvety on the palate with notes of dark chocolate, dried fruit, and spice.

Veneto, particularly the Valpolicella area, is renowned for its hilly landscapes characterised by a temperate climate. The region benefits from the mitigating effects of nearby Lake Garda and mountainous topography, which ensures sunny days and cool nights ideal for grape cultivation. The soil composition—a mix of limestone, clay, and volcanic basalt—imbues the wine with a unique mineral elegance and structure. The Amarone tradition in Valpolicella dates back centuries, and this region's historical dedication to quality wine production is evident in each bottle.

For pairing, Amarone is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with equally rich dishes. It complements slow-cooked meats such as osso buco, wild game, and braised lamb. Traditional regional pairings include risotto all'Amarone, which enhances the wine's depth, or a classic aged Parmigiano-Reggiano. Its rich fruitiness and complexity also make it a delightful accompaniment to dark chocolate desserts.

To truly appreciate the Brigaldara Amarone, it is recommended to decant the bottle for at least an hour before serving, allowing the wine to fully open up. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C to highlight its aromatic bouquet and full-bodied palate. Enjoy this wine now or cellar it for further ageing, as it possesses the structure to develop gracefully over time.