Amarone della Valpolicella 2018 (Zyme)

Drink now or cellar for up to 18 years. No need to decant before serving. This majestic Amarone opens with notes of dried herbs, leather, smoky tobacco, and blackberries and blackcurrants, while the first sip reveals a bold full body, firm structure, and smooth and refined tannins. The palate is characterised by rich dark berry flavours seasoned with hints of sweet spices, baked earth, and leather which linger long on the tongue. Winemaker Celestino Gaspari learnt the art of making magnificent Amarones while working with the legendary Giuseppe Quintarelli who would go on to become his future father-in-law as well as his mentor. After working as a consultant winemaker and helping to launch over a dozen wineries in the Veneto, Celestino decided to focus on realising his own dream and founded Zyme in his garage. The grapes for this wine are sourced from old vines planted in the Negrar di Valpolicella commune and the wine is only made during the very best years. Following the harvest in late September the grapes are dried in the traditional manner for around 3 months to concentrate the flavours and sugar content. The grape must is then left to macerate and ferment using the wild yeasts naturally in the environment for some 2 months. The final step is extended maturation in huge Slavonian oak casks for at least 5 years and a further year of bottle ageing.