2007 Guiseppe Quintarelli Amarone Classico 2007

2007 Guiseppe Quintarelli Amarone Classico 2007 Quintarelli is considered the father of Amarone, with an ancient history that dates back to the early 1900s in Negrar, the epicenter of Valpolicella, where between 12 hectares of vineyards and with the utmost respect for tradition, about 50,000 bottles a year are produced for a production niche and therefore of great quality. In praise of the native grapes that are raised here in total respect for nature and following a very tight selection, Amarone Quintarelli is a beacon of Made in Italy all over the world, destined for endless aging during which it enhances its qualities to the maximum. A majestic wine, complex, son of the tradition of excellence. The nose offers a range of sensual scents: cherry, plum and red berries, then withered flowers, spices, herbs and tea leaves, then again truffle and chocolate. The palate is poetry: structured, warm, balanced and persistent. Its acidity makes it even more inviting. To pair with red meats and stews or alone as a meditation wine. Critical Acclaim 96 Wine Advocate The 2007 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico was bottled seven months before I tasted it. Grapes undergo a four-month appassimento for extra concentration and intensity. Despite this heavy-handed winemaking technique (in which the clusters lose up to 30% of their water mass in the air-drying process), this is a surprisingly delicate and nuanced wine. The aging process has definitely broken down and assimilated any of the hard edges that come from dried grapes. In its wake, the wine is polished and tight with a long, silky texture. 96 Vinous The 2007 Amarone della Valpolicella is a real stunner. Rich, seductive and generous, the 2007 captures all of the intensity of the year. Wild red cherry, licorice, menthol, spice, vanillin seem to envelop every corner of the palate. Sumptuous and yet very much classic in its weight and feel, 2007 Amarone is a winner. The 2007 can be enjoyed now, but it also has enough stuffing to drink well for many years to come, although it will likely not be as long-lived as some other recent vintages. I doubt that will be a concern for most readers. This is a fabulous wine by any measure. A 2007 Riserva, as well as Alzero, will follow. 95 Wine Spectator This finely tuned version hits a sweet spot, offering an integration of creamy tannins, lightly juicy acidity and an ample range of flavor, with baked currant, rich, smoky mineral and wild herb notes accented by hints of orange peel, leather and cacao. Displays density and power through to the lasting, spiced finish, but this remains graceful, caressing the palate throughout. Drink now through 2032. 120 cases imported.