My friend Jon and his family came to visit this week, creating a perfect opportunity to open a number of bottles that have been patiently waiting for a special occasion. This might have been my favorite from the week. Dark garnet in color and showing a bit of age. Beautiful and complex aromatics of raisin, plum, earth, brett, roasted meat and violet. On the palate, dark cherry, raspberry, plum, tobacco, fig and earth. Medium bodied, with great depth and complexity. Soft and silky smooth. 14.5% alcohol. Imported by Robert Chadderon Selections. Recommended.

Known as “the Master of the Veneto,” Giuseppe Quintarelli is considered by many to be the best producer of Amarone della Valpolicella. The estate dates back to 1924 and Giuseppe has been in charge since the mid-1950s. He is an absolute traditionalist, not having changed the techniques set by his father. He ages his Amarone for seven years in Slavonian oak “botti”. The resulting wine is one of the most complex wines produced in Italy. Giuseppe is a known for his ability to create great wines in off vintages and legendary wines in good vintages. Many have tried to recreate his wines, but he is beyond imitation.

Other wines from Giuseppe Quintarelli:
Primofiore 2004
Bianco Secco Ca’ del Merlo 2005