Wines Amarone della Valpolicella Lenotti - 2016

The Lenotti Amarone della Valpolicella 2016 stands as a testament to the rich traditions of the Veneto region in northern Italy. Amarone della Valpolicella is crafted from indigenous grape varieties, most commonly including Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara, although the precise blend may vary. The style is shaped by the traditional “appassimento” method, where grapes are partially dried on mats before fermentation to concentrate sugars, aromas, and flavours. The 2016 vintage offers a particularly balanced and expressive profile, likely showing developed notes due to several years of bottle ageing. Expect a full-bodied wine with intense flavours of dark cherry, dried fig, plum, and hints of spice, cocoa, or tobacco, complemented by velvety tannins.

The Valpolicella region benefits from a favourable mix of hilly terrain and a temperate climate influenced by both Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains. Chalky and volcanic soils add a characteristic minerality to the wines. The tradition of drying grapes for Amarone originated here and has become emblematic of the region’s winemaking heritage, producing some of Italy’s most powerful and long-lived reds.

A wine of this depth and richness is best paired with robust dishes. Hearty stews, braised meats such as osso buco, aged cheeses, and roasted game all serve as excellent accompaniments. For a regional touch, consider serving it with traditional Veronese dishes like pastissada de caval (horsemeat stew) or risotto all’Amarone, which incorporate the local flavours and textures Amarone was crafted to complement.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for at least one to two hours prior to serving, allowing its full aromatic complexity to unfold. Serve at a temperature of 18-20°C. This will fully reveal its powerful bouquet and supple structure, offering an opulent yet balanced tasting experience true to the legacy of Amarone della Valpolicella.