Domìni Veneti Vigneti di Jago Amarone 2016

Amarone, from the Valpolicella region, is one of Italy’s greatest reds – a dry version of the sweet Recioto. The style was, in fact, discovered at this great cellar, which has thrice been named Winery of the Year. What distinguishes Amarone from standard Valpolicella is that the grapes are air-dried on straw mats after harvesting. The procedure, known as ‘appassimento’, lasts around 130 days and concentrates the grapes’ flavours and sugars prior to pressing, while ageing for 24 months in fine French Allier oak barriques imparts further complexity. Full and intense with almost port-like richness, prune, tobacco and spice character, great structure and a warm finish, this red is a dream with a slow cooked game casserole or hard cheeses.