Wines Amarone della Valpolicella Fratelli Vogadori - Grazie - 2017

Viniou Reviews

Fratelli Vogadori's Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG, vintage 2017, is a remarkable red wine from the heart of the Veneto region in northern Italy. The “Cuvée Grazie” showcases a classic blend of indigenous grape varieties—Corvina, Corvinone, and Rondinella—meticulously hand-selected. The grapes, after harvest, undergo the appassimento process: they are dried for several months, concentrating their sugars and flavors before being gently pressed and aged, often in oak barrels. This method imparts Amarone with its signature richness, depth, and velvety texture. The 2017 vintage reveals pronounced aromas of dried cherries, figs, and plums, interwoven with nuances of cocoa, tobacco, and subtle spices. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, complex, and persistent, with refined tannins and a lingering, elegant finish.

The Valpolicella region is nestled between the city of Verona and Lake Garda, benefiting from a moderate continental climate with breezes from the lake that temper both winter frosts and summer heat. The rolling hills are rich in limestone and clay soils, ideal for viticulture. Vineyards in this area have a long history, with winemaking traditions tracing back to Roman times, and Amarone standing as the emblem of local expertise and dedication. The DOCG status underlines the rigorous standards upheld here, ensuring wines of exceptional character and age-worthiness.

Amarone’s power and complexity pair beautifully with dishes that can match its intensity. Traditional pairings include braised beef cheek, osso buco, or rich lamb ragù. Veneta cuisine features polenta with mushroom ragout or aged Monte Veronese cheese, both harmonizing wonderfully with Amarone’s depth. For a special touch, try pairing it with wild game or even bitter chocolate for a sensory contrast.

To fully appreciate the Cuvée Grazie’s aromatic bouquet and structure, serve it slightly below room temperature, ideally at 17-18°C. Decanting the wine for at least an hour before serving will allow its complex aromas and flavors to unfold beautifully in the glass.