What kind of wine is Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 'Vaio Armaron' 2017 - Serego Alighieri, Masi
The Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 'Vaio Armaron' 2017 - Serego Alighieri, Masi is one of the most representative red wines of Italian enology. It originates in the heart of Valpolicella Classica, from a historic vineyard owned by the descendants of Dante Alighieri, now managed with the expertise and skill of the Masi family. It is an elegant and rich Amarone, with a full and velvety body, capable of authentically expressing the identity of the territory. The traditional Veronese grape varieties are the protagonists:- Corvina – for structure and softness;
- Rondinella – for aromas and finesse;
- Molinara – for freshness and harmony.
Vintage Details
The 2017 vintage was characterized by a balanced climate, with a dry and sunny summer that favored the perfect ripening of the grapes. The harvest, carried out manually, brought healthy bunches rich in natural sugars to the winery, ideal for the typical Amarone drying process. This process, which lasts about three months, concentrates aromas and flavors, giving the wine its typical power balanced by an elegant softness.Winemaking and Aging
After drying, the grapes are gently pressed and left to ferment at a controlled temperature to extract aromas and structure without excessive harsh tannins. Maceration on the skins contributes to aromatic depth and intense color. Aging follows the traditional Masi method: three years in Slavonian oak barrels and subsequent four months in cherry wood barrels, a wood dear to the Serego Alighieri family. This particular passage in cherry wood imparts an unmistakable touch, with sweet and spicy notes typical of this Amarone.Tasting Notes
Color
In the glass, the Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 'Vaio Armaron' 2017 - Serego Alighieri, Masi presents a deep ruby red with garnet reflections, a sign of maturity and long evolution. The consistency is evident, with slow and regular tears anticipating its rich structure.Nose
The nose opens with broad and intense aromas of ripe cherry, dried plum, and delicate hints of sweet spices. Tones of cocoa, tobacco, and a light balsamic note then emerge. The bouquet evolves in the glass, progressively revealing the typical complexity of high-end Amarone.Taste
On the palate, it is enveloping and powerful, with soft tannins and a long and harmonious finish. The well-balanced alcoholic component blends with the freshness, providing an elegant and warm finish, consistent with the wine's identity. It is a meditation red, intense, but never excessive.What dishes to pair with Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 'Vaio Armaron' 2017 - Serego Alighieri, Masi
This Amarone pairs perfectly with rich and structured dishes of Italian tradition. Its warm and spicy notes enhance the flavor of meat-based main courses and aged cheeses. Pairing suggestions:- Braised beef or beef cheek in red wine;
- Beef fillet with Amarone reduction;
- Stewed game;
- Aged cheeses such as Monte Veronese or Parmigiano Reggiano.
Storage and Aging
Those who want to know how to store Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 'Vaio Armaron' 2017 - Serego Alighieri, Masi will find it useful to know that it is a long-aging wine, capable of evolving and improving over time if kept under the right conditions.
- Ideal temperature: between 12°C and 16°C in a cool and constant environment;
- Bottle position: lying down, to keep the cork always moist;
- Light and vibrations: avoid direct exposure to light and heat sources.
Masi
The History of Masi Winery The history of Masi winery is rooted in the winemaking tradition of Valpolicella, one of Italy's most renowned wine regions. With a heritage dating back to the 18th century, Masi has successfully combined tradition and innovation, carrying on a legacy that skillfully bl...
How to open and best serve Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 'Vaio Armaron' 2017 - Serego Alighieri, Masi
1. Bottle positioning
Before opening Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 'Vaio Armaron' 2017 - Serego Alighieri, Masi, it is important to handle it with care. If the bottle has been stored horizontally, place it upright at least 24 hours before serving. This allows the sediment, typical of aged wines, to settle at the bottom, preventing it from being poured into the glass.
2. Ideal serving temperature
The perfect temperature to enjoy this Amarone is between 18°C and 20°C. If the bottle is stored in a cellar, bring it to room temperature slowly, avoiding sudden temperature changes. Do not use ice or a direct refrigerator: gradual warming preserves the integrity of the complex aromas.
3. Opening the bottle
Use a lever or double-action corkscrew for better control of the pressure on the cork. Follow these simple steps:
- Remove the capsule by cutting just below the rim of the neck.
- Clean the neck of the bottle with a clean, dry cloth.
- Insert the screw of the corkscrew into the center of the cork and turn gently.
- Slowly extract the cork to avoid jerks and vibrations that could disturb the sediment.
4. Inspection and first taste
Check the condition of the cork: it should be damp on the underside, a sign of good preservation. Pour a small amount of wine into the glass for a first taste. Check that the wine does not show oxidized notes or olfactory defects. If the aroma is harmonious and rich, the wine is ready for decanting.
5. Decanting and oxygenation
Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 'Vaio Armaron' 2017 - Serego Alighieri, Masi greatly benefits from decanting. This process allows the wine to fully express its structure and complexity. Here's how to proceed:
- Slowly pour the wine into a decanting carafe, keeping the bottle tilted and monitoring for the appearance of sediment.
- Allow to oxygenate for approximately 45-60 minutes before serving.
- During decanting, the wine opens up, revealing aromas of ripe cherry, spices, and balsamic notes typical of the Veneto region.
6. Serving
Serve the Amarone in large, broad-bowled glasses that allow for maximum oxygenation. Pour a moderate amount slowly at a time, to appreciate the evolution of the bouquet in the glass. This wine pairs beautifully with red meat dishes, game, and aged cheeses. Every sip will be an intense and enveloping experience.
7. Storage after opening
If not consumed entirely, reseal the bottle well with the original cork or a vacuum stopper. Store the wine in a cool, dark place, away from heat sources. Amarone can maintain its qualities for 2-3 days after opening, but it is advisable to enjoy it within 24 hours to best appreciate its aromatic complexity.