2013 Masi Serego Alighieri Vaio Armaron, Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG, Italy

Located in Gargagnago, within the commune of Sant'Ambrogio di Valpolicella, this vineyard is part of the Conti Serego Alighieri family property. At 230-265 meters elevation, vineyards face southwest, with red soil rich in humus, on eocenic limestone and clay, with good drainage. Terraces are supported by dry stone walls call ‘marogne.’ Terrain and climatic conditions permit only limited production of very high-quality grapes. Amarone is made with the ancient method of "appassimento," drying of the grapes. Bunches are dried on bamboo racks with natural ventilation. By mid-February, the grapes weigh 35-40% less; only Corvina is affected by botrytis. After delicate pressing, the dried grapes are partially destemmed, fermented for 48 days in large Slavonian oak botti, at cold, natural temperatures until the sugar has transformed to alcohol, with malolactic. Aged 3 years in 6-20 hl Slavonian oak botti, 4 months in cherry wood casks’ minimum 5 months in bottle. Deep ruby red in colour, almost impenetrable. Elegant bouquet of marasca cherry conserve and cherries preserved in spirit accompanied by hints of chocolate and cinammon. Full bodied on the palate, complex and well balanced; the tannins stand out but are soft and silky. Long finish with hints of red fruit conserve and sweet spices.

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