Amarone (2012) - Speri

In the heart of the Valpolicella, the Speri winery stands for tradition and innovation alike. One fascinating detail concerns the origin of Amarone, which is bound up with Recioto della Valpolicella. The story goes that Amarone was born by mistake, when a cooper forgot a cask of Recioto and left it to ferment for longer than intended. The result was a dry wine, but an extraordinarily rich and complex one. The Speri family, with its long winemaking history, has made the most of that "mistake", turning it into an oenological masterpiece. The 2012 vintage in particular is remembered for the ideal weather that brought out the character of the Corvina, Molinara and Rondinel

The appellation: Recioto della Valpolicella DOCG

Recioto della Valpolicella DOCG is a sweet wine of great prestige, produced in the historic Valpolicella region, in the Veneto. This appellation, recognised in 2010, stands out for its centuries-old tradition and for the quality of the grapes used, mainly Corvina, Corvinone and Rondinella, which are dried to concentrate sugars and flavours.

What to eat with Amarone

Who makes it: Speri

Founded in 1900, the Speri winery is a symbol of Veneto's winemaking tradition, set in the heart of Valpolicella. With a history closely bound up with its land, Speri stands out for its ability to combine traditional production methods with modern techniques, creating wines that express the authenticity of the region. Among its most famous labels, Valpolicella Classico and the iconic Amarone della Valpolicella represent the very best of the winery. Every wine tells a story, reflecting the particular features of the soil and climate, and offers a unique sensory experience.

The vine of Amarone

Corvina

Corvina is a black grape variety native to the Veneto, considered the main variety in the production of some of the region’s most celebrated wines, including Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG, Recioto della Valpolicella DOCG and Valpolicella DOC. It is characterised by vibrant acidity, elegant tannins and an aromatic profile rich in red fruit, spices and floral nuances.

Rondinella

Rondinella is a black grape variety native to Veneto, historically used in the blends of Valpolicella, Bardolino and Amarone della Valpolicella. Rarely vinified as a single variety, it is a complementary variety to Corvina, to which it brings colour, resistance and freshness.

Molinara

Molinara is a black grape variety native to Veneto, historically used in the blends of Valpolicella, Bardolino and Amarone della Valpolicella. Its name comes from the whitish bloom that covers the berries, making the bunches look "dusted with flour" (hence "Molinara", which recalls the word "mulino", or mill).

Amarone: the Valpolicella area

Climate: Mediterranean

Altitude: Low to mid altitude (200–500 m above sea level)

Soil: Limestone / chalk

Geographical setting: Hilly

Profile of Amarone

Primary aromas: Cherry, Ripe red fruit

Secondary aromas: Spices, Vanilla

Tertiary aromas: Leather, Tobacco

Tasting notes: A full-bodied wine with notes of ripe red fruit and spice, typical of Amarone della Valpolicella.