Masi Costasera Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico – A Smooth, Savory and Sophisticated Saturday Splurge

A traditional blend of Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara from Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico, Veneto, Italy.

SRP of $70 and available for as low as $40 (Saturday Splurge). Imported by Kobrand Corporation. Sample submitted for review.

From the bottle:

“Appaxximento countersigns Masi’s expertise in the XXI century in the technique of obtaining greater concentration of aromas and tastes from grapes through the drying process.

The vineyards slopes facing the sunset in the Classica area benefit from the reflections of the light from Lake Garda and its temperate climate. Using ancient grapes varieties and traditional methods, this is where Amarone, a unique modern wine with an ancient heart, has its origins.

Appearance: deep ruby red
Nose: baked fruit, plums and cherries
Palate: fruity tastes with hints of coffee and cocoa. Very well balanced.
Food pairing: main-course dishes, grilled or roasted meats, game, strong cheeses or on its own at the end of a meal.
To be served at 18-20C

15.0% Alcohol”

Today we have another Holiday Saturday Splurge wine for gift giving to the wine lovers in your life. This wine comes from the same producer as our Bulk Buy rated Masi Campofiorin Rosso del Veronese 2009 – A Supervenetian That’s Super Good. And as we explained in that post, you have to pay the price if you want to experience the best examples of certain wines and Amarone is one of them. And while occasionally you might sneak one in under $20 it’s definitely not the norm — but at least with Amarone it’s easy to understand why it costs so much given the expensive production process using dried grapes.

The 2009 Masi Agricola Costasera Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico begins with a complex and enticing aroma of blackberry, plum, raisins, prunes, spice, dried herbs and a little red licorice. The wine tastes smooth with a wonderful velvety texture and a full mouthfeel and is simply a pleasure to drink. In the mouth you find similar flavors to the nose with a nice balsamic edge. The wine finishes dry with more savory dried berry fruit flavors plus a nice spicy streak and hints of coffee and chocolate. For me the finish is where Saturday Splurge wines really need to shine to justify the cost and this one absolutely does.

See a listing of local retailers selling this wine here.

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