Masi Costasera Amarone Classico 2019

Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG “Costasera” by Masi

Winemaker Notes: Deep ruby red with brilliant reflections. Intense and elegant aromas of cherry and plum jam with hints of cinnamon and cloves. Firm structure, but soft on the palate. Velvety tannins and round acidity. The wine boasts a long and full fruity finish with a soft spiciness at the end.

Legends Masi describe their ‘Costasera’ as their ‘gentle giant’, an Amarone of softness as well as power and complexity. Despite the challenges in 2015 presented by heat and dryness they managed to produce a marvellous example, fully worthy of the brand’s fame and reputation.

Winemaking: grapes harvested from sunset-facing slopes overlooking Lake Garda are dried on specialised bamboo racks for 2-3 months to maximise intensity prior to fermentation. 80% of the wine is then aged for 24 months in Slavonian oak, with the remaining 20% in Allier French oak barriques.

Assemblage: corvina 70%, rondinella 25%, molinara 5%.

Alcohol: 15%.

Colour: intense, opaque dark red with garnet tinges.

Aroma: red and black cherries, a certain smokiness and even a hint of baked apple.

Palate: fruit-forward, full but velvety-soft with balancing acidity. The oak spice is present but extremely well-judged and not overwhelming, while forest-floor and fondente notes are there to reward meditation and contemplation.

Ageability: This one has barely begun – expect it to change and evolve for decades to come.

Pairing: meaty primi and secondi, as well as mushrooms or cassoulet. Aged milder blue cheeses would react wonderfully with the sweet fruit in the wine.

Local Pickup Only, Dayton OH