Wines Amarone della Valpolicella Villa Annaberta - Private Collection - 2015

Viniou Reviews

Villa Annaberta’s Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 2015 is a remarkable example of this iconic Italian red wine. Crafted predominantly from native grape varieties such as Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara, this Private Collection cuvée is the result of a meticulous appassimento process: hand-selected grapes are dried for several months to concentrate flavours before a long fermentation and oak maturation. The 2015 vintage expresses remarkable depth and complexity: expect a robust structure with notes of black cherry, dried figs, cocoa and sweet spices, harmoniously woven together with velvety tannins and a persistent finish.

The Valpolicella region, nestled in the Veneto not far from Verona and Lake Garda, benefits from a unique combination of climate and soils. The rolling hills and cool breezes from the Dolomites create an ideal environment for slow grape ripening, preserving freshness while encouraging flavour concentration. The region’s calcareous and moraine soils enhance both structure and aromatic character in the wines. Historically famed for its wine production since Roman times, Valpolicella is synonymous with both tradition and innovation, standing out for its unique dried grape vinification technique that defines Amarone.

Amarone’s full body and intense flavours pair beautifully with hearty dishes. For a classic match, try rich meats such as braised beef cheeks, osso buco or slow-roasted lamb. The wine complements mature cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano, and can also hold its own alongside traditional regional dishes such as Venetian duck ragù or polenta with wild boar. For an adventurous pairing, consider dark chocolate-based desserts, which echo the wine’s dried fruit and spice notes.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Amarone slightly below room temperature, ideally at 17-18°C. Decanting for at least one to two hours before serving is highly recommended to allow the wine’s generous bouquet to open fully. This wine is drinking beautifully now but will reward further cellaring over the next decade.