Opening to dried fruit and savory spice, the Zenato 2016 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico leaves no doubt that it was made with the appassimento process, which sees grapes turn into raisins before winemaking. The blend is 80% Corvina, 10% Rondinella and Oseleta and Croatina representing the last 10%. The wine is open-knit and slightly oxidative, and this suggests a near or medium-term drinking window. There is a soft dose of sweetness on the close. Production is 75,000 bottles.

Expressive and beautifully fragrant, with bright hints of violet and tea rose layered among the richer notes of roasted plum, tobacco, dried cherry and loamy earth. Fresh and finely balanced, this medium- to full-bodied version ends with a chewy finish loaded with zesty ground spice. Drink now through 2029. 12,500 cases made, 2,450 cases imported.??–AN??Region: Italy / Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Select to Add