What kind of wine is Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 'La Marega' 2015 Magnum - Le Salette
Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 'La Marega' 2015 Magnum - Le Salette is an intense and structured red wine, a symbol of Verona's winemaking tradition. It is born in the heart of Valpolicella Classica, from a blend of native grapes – primarily Corvina and Rondinella, with the contribution of other local varieties – which, after harvesting, are left to dry for several months. This natural dehydration process concentrates sugars and aromas, giving the wine a full body and an unmistakable character. In the Magnum format, the 1.5-liter bottle enhances its aging potential and the soft harmony between power and elegance.
Vintage details
The 2015 vintage in Valpolicella was considered one of the most balanced of the decade. Favorable climatic conditions, with a warm but not excessive summer, allowed for optimal grape ripening, with a perfect balance between sugars, acidity, and aromatic concentration. The result is an Amarone with an intense yet balanced profile, combining strength and finesse.
Winemaking and aging
After appassimento, which lasts about 3-4 months, the grapes are destemmed and sent for slow fermentation, followed by prolonged maceration to extract color and aromas. The wine then matures for about three years in large barrels and barriques of oak, a step that smooths the tannins and adds soft spicy notes. This is followed by a period of bottle aging, necessary to achieve the full harmony and complexity that characterize this Amarone.
Tasting notes
An Amarone that captivates with its depth and richness, capable of offering a broad and satisfying sensory experience.
Color
Visually, it presents an intense ruby red, almost impenetrable, with garnet reflections that highlight the evolution of a mature and complex wine.
Nose
On the nose, it expresses a broad and enveloping bouquet: sour cherries, ripe plum, and dehydrated red fruit intertwine with hints of cocoa, sweet tobacco, and spices. The woody notes are perfectly integrated and contribute to a sense of elegance and depth.
Palate
On the palate, it is full-bodied, structured, and at the same time harmonious. The tannins – the component that gives structure and a pleasant dry sensation – are mature and velvety. The aromatic persistence is long and complex, with a warm and slightly balsamic finish. A wine that combines power and refinement, perfect for those seeking authentic emotions in a glass.
Food pairings with Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 'La Marega' 2015 Magnum - Le Salette
A wine of this intensity deserves rich and flavorful dishes that enhance its personality. Ideal pairings include:
- Braised or roasted red meats
- Stews and game
- Aged cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano or Monte Veronese
- Savory pasta dishes, such as pappardelle with wild boar ragù or Amarone risotto
Also perfect as a meditation wine, to be slowly savored on special occasions.
Storage and aging: how to store Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 'La Marega' 2015 Magnum - Le Salette
Thanks to its powerful structure and concentration, this Amarone has an extraordinary aging capacity. If stored correctly, it can evolve for over 15-20 years, developing increasingly complex and refined aromas.
To store it best:
- Keep the bottle horizontally, so that the cork remains consistently moist.
- Ideal cellar temperature: between 12°C and 16°C, stable and without thermal fluctuations.
- Dark, dry environment with controlled humidity around 70%.
The Magnum format ensures even slower and more harmonious maturation, making the tasting experience even richer. A wine that fascinates today and promises to excite even more with time.
The Private Dining Rooms
The History of Le Salette Winery Le Salette is a winery that represents a perfect blend of tradition and evolution, where the legacy of the past intertwines with the innovations of the present. Founded in the heart of Valpolicella, this winery is synonymous with quality and passion, carrying on a...
How to best open and serve Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 'La Marega' 2015 Magnum - Le Salette
1. Bottle positioning
To fully enjoy the elegance of Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 'La Marega' 2015 Magnum - Le Salette, it is important to position the bottle correctly. If it has been stored in a cellar, leave it upright for at least 24 hours before opening. This allows the natural sediments, typical of aged wines, to settle at the bottom and facilitate a clearer pour.
2. Ideal serving temperature
Serving temperature plays a fundamental role in enhancing aromas and structure. Serve Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 'La Marega' 2015 Magnum - Le Salette at a temperature between 18°C and 20°C. If the bottle is too cold, let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
3. Opening the bottle
Given the maturity of the wine, the cork may be delicate. Follow these steps:
- Carefully remove the top capsule and clean the bottle neck.
- Use a lever or double-action corkscrew to avoid damaging the cork.
- If the cork is particularly fragile, opt for a pronged corkscrew, ideal for vintage wines.
4. Inspection and first taste
After opening, observe the color by pouring a small amount into a glass. The garnet hue with orange reflections is typical of the evolution of a well-preserved Amarone. Smell to check for cork taint or oxidation. Take a first taste to assess the vibrancy and the presence of evolved aromas of dried fruit, spices, and cocoa.
5. Decanting and aeration
Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 'La Marega' 2015 Magnum - Le Salette greatly benefits from decanting. This phase allows the separation of sediments and lets the wine breathe, amplifying the aromatic bouquet.
- Slowly pour the wine into a decanter, avoiding stirring the sediments.
- Allow it to aerate for at least 1 hour before serving; for more complex or long-stored examples, up to 2 hours.
6. Serving
Serve the wine in large glasses for structured red wines, which allow for proper aeration and a better perception of Amarone's complex aromas. Pour moderate portions into each glass to maintain a constant serving temperature. Pair this masterpiece with robust dishes such as roasts, game, or aged cheeses.
7. Storage after opening
If not consumed entirely, store Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 'La Marega' 2015 Magnum - Le Salette in a cool, dark place. Use a vacuum stopper or a wine preservation system to slow down oxidation. The wine will retain its best qualities for 2-3 days after opening.