2020 AMARONE, Alpha Zeta. Valpolicella, Veneto, Italy

85% Corvina, 15% Rondinella and Corvinone, dried for 4 months so they lose 40% of their weight; then fermented in steel and matured in a mix of large old oak and French ‘barrique’ for 24 months.

Made by the co-operative of Valpantena, who control 700 hectares of vineyard, in conjunction with kiwi winemaker Matt Thomson, who also oversees the winemaking of the Tinpot Hut range in New Zealand (as well as consulting at St Clair, Delta and Craggy Range).

Big and powerful with plenty of dark fruit and smoke – classic Amarone style but at a sensible price.

Decanter Magazine –
“A melange of sweet vanilla oak, plums and cherry stones are complemented by herbs and a touch of treacle. These flavours are offset by well-judged, gravelly tannins and bright acidity. A really pretty young wine”.
92/100 – ‘Highly Recommended’