Wines Amarone della Valpolicella Tedeschi - Montolmi Riserva - 2006

Viniou Reviews

Tedeschi’s 2006 Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG, Cuvée Montolmi Riserva, is a wine of remarkable character and depth. Crafted from a blend of indigenous grapes, predominantly Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella with a small proportion of other local varieties, this classic red follows the traditional Amarone method. The grapes, carefully harvested, are left to dry on mats during several months, a process locally known as appassimento. This concentrates the sugars and flavours before fermentation, which is followed by extensive ageing in oak casks. The 2006 vintage was marked by favourable weather, allowing for optimal ripening and perfect conditions for drying, giving the wine its opulent texture and complexity.

Valpolicella, nestled in the rolling hills of Veneto, enjoys a mild continental climate, buffered by Lake Garda’s tempering influence. The region’s soils are predominantly limestone and clay, contributing a balanced minerality and freshness to the robust wines. Valpolicella boasts a long winemaking tradition dating back to Roman times, and Amarone, its flagship style, was born from a serendipitous fermentation that turned a sweet Recioto dry. Today, Amarone is revered for its concentration, depth, and ability to age beautifully.

The Tedeschi Cuvée Montolmi Riserva, with its deep colour, intense aromas of dried cherries, figs, cocoa, and sweet spices, will pair magnificently with rich, hearty dishes. Traditional Venetian braised beef (pastissada de caval), ossobuco, or aged cheeses like Monte Veronese are excellent companions. It is also superb with game, wild boar stew, or truffle-infused pasta. For a more local experience, serve alongside amarone risotto, where the wine is both ingredient and accompaniment.

To best appreciate its complexity, decant the wine at least two hours before serving and enjoy it at 18-20°C. This will highlight its layered bouquet and the elegant, velvety tannins, promising a memorable tasting experience.