AMARONE CLASSICO 2009
Appellation: Amarone della Valpolicella Classico D.O.C.
Grape varieties: Corvina Veronese 80%, Rondinella 15%, Oseleta 5%
The territory: Valpolicella Classica
Vineyard location: Located in the hills of the Valpolicella Classico area
Altitude: 180-280 metres (591-919 feet) above sea level
Exposure: Southeast
Soil characteristic: Varied, but mostly clayey and chalky soils of volcanic origin
Training system: Old vines Pergola Trentina, new vines Guyot
Average age of the vines: 30 years
Density of the vineyards: Old vines, about 3,000 plants/Ha, new vines about 5,000 plants/Ha
VINIFICATION AND AGEING
Harvest: Hand harvest of selected bunches carried out in late September
Appassimento (drying process): Naturally dried for 3-4 months in the drying facility. The grapes lose 40-45% of their original weight
Vinification: De-stemmed and soft-pressed in early January
Fermentation: In temperature controlled stainless steel tanks
Fermentation temperature: 8-22°C (46-72°F)
Length of fermentation: 25 days with daily periodic pumping over
Ageing: 18 months in oak, then blended together for 7 months
ANALYTICAL DATA
Alcohol content: 15.8% Vol
Total acidity: 5.9 g/l
Residual sugars: 3.8 g/l
Dry extract: 34.9 g/l
Free SO2: 27 mg/l
Total SO2: 89 mg/l
pH: 3.37
VINTAGE CHARACTERISTICS
The main feature of vintage 2009 was the anticipated start of the growing season in comparison with previous years.
In terms of climate, the heavy rainfall that accumulated during the winter compensated for the heat and lack of rain in summer. Throughout the whole of September, climatic conditions were good, with little rainfall and an accentuated difference between day and night temperatures. This undoubtedly enabled the grapes to reach maturity, determining excellent phenolic properties. The grape yields were normal and slightly lower than in past vintages.
The wines achieved a good overall balance, with sugar concentrations within the norm. They are therefore expected to be extremely harmonious due to the levels of alcohol, acidity and polyphenolic components.
TASTING NOTES
The result of the Allegrini Family’s expertise, a true classic of the appellation, this red wine embraces tradition, territory and the know-how of country ways. Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella and Oseleta are left to air dry at least until December and are checked daily to ensure perfectly healthy grapes. Lengthy refining and ageing finally yields a red wine that has become emblematic of Italian oenology, alongside Barolo and Brunello di Montalcino. It has imposing structure and depth, as much in its aromas of mature fruit and spices, as on the palate, where the alcohol is sustained by the right degree of acidity and refined tannins.
FOOD PAIRINGS
Traditionally enjoyed with game, roasted and grilled meats, casseroles and well matured cheeses. Excellent with hearty dishes. Amarone’s distinctive flavour compliments new and exotic sweet and sour dishes. It is therefore also perfect with Asian and middle-eastern dishes. Serve at 18°C (64°F) and open the bottle an hour before drinking. This wine has the potential to age for more than 20 years.