Of the two Amarones in the Collezione Ca del Pipa line, the 2009 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Collezione Ca del Pipa Colle Cristi is executed in a slightly leaner, more traditional style compared to the Cinque Stelle. Harvested grapes are air-dried for up to four months and wine sees a very long, 40-day maceration period with biweekly pump-overs. It is then aged, in part, in new and neutral barrique and large Slavonian casks for a few years. The results show overall richness and generosity with ripe layers of jammy fruit, dried ginger, balsam herb and cured meat. In fact, those savory and spicy nuances make for impressive complexity and the wine evolves steadily as it aerates in the glass. There’s a very attractive element of Amarone purism on display. Drink 2014-2024. Sergio and Maria Castellani farm 40 hectares in the Classico zone that are almost all planted to the traditional Pergola training system. The overhead trellis is making a comeback in these beautiful hills after many years of experimentation with cordons, cane-pruned vines and other international systems. The family sources fruit from two important single vineyards, Ca del Pipa and dei Castei, and each represents its own line of wines under the Castellani Michele & Figli brand. Importer: Bedford International, www.winesfrombedford.com

A rich and smoky note backs subtle flavors of black cherry coulis, dried currant, coffee grounds and grilled herb, with lovely texture and overall finesse. Drink now through 2024. 1,000 cases made, 400 cases imported.??–AN??Region: Italy / Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Select to Add