2018 Dal Forno Romano Vigneto Monte Lodoletta Amarone della Valpolicella

The Dal Forno family has been making wine since 1983. Located in Val D'Illasi, the estate consists of 65 acres of vines planted to traditional indigenous varieties of Corvina, Corvinone, Rodinella, Oseleta, and Croatina.

Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 'Monte Lodoletta' differs from the Valpolicella Superiore DOC 'Monte Lodoletta' in three key ways. First, its drying period lasts three months rather than one and a half. Second, following company philosophy, Amarone uses only grapes from vineyards over ten years old. Third, the grapes come from the estate's most premium vineyards, selected for their superior soil and climate conditions. Apart from these distinctions, both wines share similar production and maturation methods.

 However, Amarone stands apart from its younger sibling with its greater power and elegance. It demonstrates superior complexity, depth, and persistence. The estate vineyards and farm are located where the slopes begin to rise toward the mountains and sit 1,000 feet above sea level.

The 2018 vintage was rainy yet balanced. It began with a mild January and above-average temperatures until late February brought a cold snap (-6/-8°C), delaying budding by 25 days. Spring temperatures were moderate, and summer maintained normal temperatures with ideal day night variations. Heavy rainfall from May through July posed challenges for disease management but caused no damage. August's heat helped dry the accumulated moisture, though a significant September storm (150mm rain in 20 minutes) raised concerns about vintage quality.

 Though rain interrupted the harvest multiple times, the ines—supported by a decade of soil management work—responded well. The 2018 vintage ultimately delivered both quantity and quality, proving resilient through challenging weather conditions.

In temperature-controlled steel tanks (around 28 degrees), equipped with a sophisticated computerized  system that allows automatic punching-down over a period of around 15 days, including the final two days  of maceration.

 TASTING NOTES: Complex aromas of black cherries, blueberries, and chocolate hint at the luxurious ripe fruit that unfolds on the palate with remarkable persistence. The finish reveals delicate notes of truffle, tobacco, and new leather.

This wine's impressive depth suggests significant aging potential, promising a long evolution ahead.