Wines Valpolicella Masi - Nectar Costasera - 2019

Viniou Reviews

The Masi Valpolicella Cuvée Nectar Costasera 2019 is an enticing red wine from the heart of Veneto in northern Italy. Crafted primarily from the region’s classic grape varieties—Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara—this wine embodies the tradition and expertise of the historic Masi estate. The 2019 vintage benefited from a balanced growing season, allowing optimal ripening and flavour concentration. Masi is renowned for its careful vinification techniques, often including partial drying (appassimento) of the grapes for certain cuvées, which adds structure and enhances aromatic complexity. Although the Costasera line is best known for Amarone, the Cuvée Nectar stands out for its rich, approachable style, offering dark cherry, plum, and subtle spice notes framed by velvety tannins.

Valpolicella is an iconic denomination within Veneto, a region with a rich viticultural legacy dating back to Roman times. The area is characterised by gently rolling hills with calcareous and clay-limestone soils, providing excellent drainage and mineral backbone. The climate is moderate, influenced by nearby Lake Garda, which tempers heat and encourages healthy grape development while preserving aromatic freshness. Veneto's reputation is built on its diversity: from the light and fragrant Valpolicella Classico to the more opulent Ripasso and Amarone styles, all stemming from the same core grape varieties and terroir.

This wine’s supple structure and vivid fruit character make it exceptionally versatile at the table. For a traditional pairing, enjoy it with risotto all’Amarone, a rich and creamy dish that echoes the wine’s depth. It also pairs beautifully with roasted lamb, slow-braised beef, or even pizza topped with cured meats and earthy mushrooms. For a vegetarian option, oven-roasted aubergine or a wild mushroom ragù are delightful companions.

For optimal enjoyment, serve the Masi Valpolicella Cuvée Nectar Costasera 2019 at approximately 16-18°C, allowing its aromatics and texture to fully express themselves. Decanting for about half an hour will allow the wine to breathe and reveal its fine complexity.