Wines Amarone della Valpolicella Tedeschi - Montolmi - 2018

Viniou Reviews

Tedeschi’s Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG Cuvée Montolmi 2018 is a quintessential example of the grandeur and complexity that Amarone can achieve. Crafted predominantly from Corvina, Corvinone, and Rondinella grapes, this iconic red wine is produced using the traditional appassimento method: grapes are carefully dried after harvest to concentrate sugars and flavours before undergoing slow fermentation. The 2018 vintage delivers remarkable depth, with aromas of ripe cherry, black plum, dried fig, and notes of cocoa and sweet spice. The tannins are generous and well-defined, married to lively acidity, giving the wine backbone and length.

The Valpolicella region in the Veneto sits just north-west of Verona and is defined by rolling hills, rich in limestone and basaltic soils that impart both minerality and complexity to the wines. The cool breezes from nearby Lake Garda, combined with the warmth of the Mediterranean climate, create the perfect conditions for healthy ripening, aided by dry autumns that allow for the crucial drying process. With a history dating to Roman times, Valpolicella is home to a winemaking tradition renowned across the world, and Amarone stands as its flagship style—powerful, yet always elegant.

For such a rich and robust wine, pairings must meet its powerful profile. Amarone is splendid alongside slow-cooked meats such as osso buco or rich stews, and works beautifully with aged cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano. Regional dishes such as bigoli pasta with duck ragù complement its depth, as do grilled lamb or wild boar. The wine’s structure also allows it to stand up to dark chocolate desserts if you fancy experimenting beyond the savoury.

To make the most of your Amarone della Valpolicella 2018, decant the wine at least two hours before service to allow its intricate aromatics to unfurl. Serve it at 18°C. Its concentration, grip and finesse will evolve in the glass, making for a memorable tasting experience.