Recchia Amarone 2017 (Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella)

Recchia is a respected family-run winery in Valpolicella, known for its dedication to tradition and craftsmanship. With generations of winemaking expertise, they produce wines that reflect the richness and elegance of the region. Their Amarone della Valpolicella is made using the appassimento method, where grapes are dried for several months before fermentation, concentrating their flavours and sugars. The 2017 vintage was marked by a warm growing season, resulting in ripe, powerful wines with great depth and structure.

The vineyards are planted on the rolling hills of Valpolicella, where limestone and volcanic soils contribute to both the wine’s structure and minerality. The drying process enhances complexity, while extended oak ageing refines the tannins and deepens the wine’s luxurious texture.

Appearance: Deep garnet red with ruby highlights, showing both intensity and early signs of ageing. The wine coats the glass, indicating its richness and high alcohol content. As it swirls, slow-moving legs form, hinting at its full-bodied nature.

Aroma: Powerful and complex, with rich notes of dried cherries, blackberries, and figs. Layers of dark chocolate, vanilla, and sweet spices from oak ageing blend with hints of tobacco, leather, and earthy undertones. A touch of balsamic and dried herbs adds further depth, creating an enticing and multi-dimensional bouquet.

Taste: Full-bodied and velvety, with intense flavours of black cherries, ripe plums, and dark cocoa. The appassimento process enhances concentration, while fine-grained tannins provide structure. Well-balanced acidity keeps the wine lively, and secondary notes of espresso, liquorice, and cinnamon emerge as the wine opens up. A gentle savoury edge adds to its complexity, making every sip more intriguing.

Finish: Exceptionally long and warming, with lingering notes of dark berries, spice, and a subtle bitterness reminiscent of high-quality dark chocolate. A slight smokiness and mineral edge leave a lasting impression, ensuring depth and refinement from start to finish.

Food Pairing: A perfect match for braised short ribs, where the wine’s richness and depth complement the slow-cooked tenderness of the meat. It also pairs beautifully with aged Parmigiano Reggiano, enhancing its nutty, umami character. For a plant-based option, try it with a roasted aubergine and black truffle pasta, where the wine’s earthiness mirrors the dish’s depth.