Wines Amarone della Valpolicella Fabiano - Rigoli

Fabiano’s Amarone della Valpolicella Cuvée Rigoli is a fine representation of one of Italy’s most storied red wine styles. Although this particular bottle is non-vintage, meaning its grapes could originate from more than one harvest, you can expect the classic structure and opulence associated with Amarone. The wine is deeply coloured, typically full-bodied, and crafted from indigenous grape varieties of the Valpolicella area. The traditional method for Amarone involves drying the grapes after harvest—a process called appassimento—which concentrates their sugars and flavours, resulting in a richly textured, powerful wine. The “Cuvée Rigoli” designation likely hints at a special selection or blending within the estate, offering a nuanced take on the house style, marked by dark cherry, dried fruit, and hints of cocoa and spice on the nose and palate.

The Veneto region, nestled in north-eastern Italy, is famed for its rolling hills, mosaic of vineyard microclimates and its limestone and clay-based soils, which lend a distinctive vibrance and mineral backbone to local wines. Amarone itself is the pride of Valpolicella, celebrated since at least the mid-20th century for transforming a historically lighter wine region into one famed for boldness and intensity. The cool breezes from nearby Lake Garda and the sheltering foothills of the Alps create an ideal environment for slow, even ripening and, crucially, for the months-long drying process unique to Amarone.

Given its richness and depth, this wine begs for hearty pairings—think slow-braised beef cheeks, osso buco, or a rustic wild mushroom risotto. For a truly local touch, try it with traditional Venetian dishes, such as pastissada de caval (horse meat stew) or aged cheeses like Monte Veronese.

To showcase its best qualities, serve at 17-18°C after at least an hour’s decanting, allowing the bouquet and palate to fully unfold. Amarone also ages gracefully in the bottle, so if you have the patience, laying a few bottles down could yield rewarding results over the years.