Valpolicella, a name synonymous with some of the finest wines Italy has to offer, is a landscape steeped in both history and viticulture.
This prestigious region, which encompasses 19 municipalities around the Adige River, Valpantena, and the Lessini Mountains in Verona, has become a symbol of exceptional wine production and cultural heritage. With its varied elevations, ranging from 50 meters to 750 meters above sea level, the area’s nearly 30,000 hectares are dotted with vineyards, rolling hills, and picturesque Venetian villas—a setting that has inspired great works, including those of Dante Alighieri during his exile.
The heart of Valpolicella’s wine culture lies in the iconic Amarone, one of Italy’s most celebrated reds. The unique production method, which involves drying the grapes before fermentation—a practice that has even garnered consideration for UNESCO recognition—sets Amarone apart from other wines. Its rich, full-bodied profile, paired with its historic craftsmanship, has ensured that Amarone continues to be adored by consumers around the world. In fact, Amarone exports make up over 60% of the region’s production, with the U.S., Canada, and Northern Europe being key markets. This demand is also reflected in the wine’s price, which has consistently exceeded 1,000 euros per hectoliter, marking it as Italy's most valuable wine.
A Historical Vineyard, A Modern Economic Force
With more than 8,600 hectares of vineyards, Valpolicella has grown into a viticultural powerhouse. Over the past two decades, vineyard expansion has been remarkable, with hectares doubling and grape production nearly quadrupling. The region’s economic impact is equally impressive, with an estimated turnover of over 600 million euros, half of which comes from Amarone sales. Each hectare of vineyard land is valued between 500,000 and 600,000 euros, reflecting both the region’s rich history and its ongoing investment in sustainable viticulture. Remarkably, 90% of producers are local, a testament to their deep-rooted connection to the land.
Amarone Opera Prima: Celebrating the Past and Future
A key event in Valpolicella’s annual calendar is “Amarone Opera Prima,” held in Verona’s majestic Palazzo della Gran Guardia. This year, the event not only unveiled the new 2020 Amarone vintage but also marked the 100th anniversary of the Consorzio Vini della Valpolicella. The Consorzio, which represents over 2,400 companies, including vineyard growers, winemakers, and bottlers, has played a pivotal role in elevating Valpolicella wines to international acclaim. The event saw the participation of 78 prestigious wineries, ranging from Albino Armani to Marilisa Allegrini, showcasing the region’s diverse and high-quality production.
One of the highlights of the event was the masterclass “The Memory of Time,” which offered a rare opportunity to taste historic Amarone vintages. Wines such as the Amarone di Bolla 1950 and the Amarone Montresor 1969 were presented, demonstrating the long history and evolution of Amarone, once considered a “mistake” in production. Initially, Amarone was the accidental product of a fermenting Recioto, which had been left too long in the barrel, resulting in a dry, bitter wine. Today, it stands as a prized icon of Italian winemaking.
A Fine Dining Favorite
Amarone’s growing popularity in the fine dining scene is undeniable. As part of the event, a gourmet lunch by renowned chef Giancarlo Perbellini was served, further cementing Amarone’s place in the world of haute cuisine. Amarone has also found a spot on the wine lists of the world’s top restaurants, from London’s Mountain Beak St. to New York’s Eleven Madison Avenue. The wine's ability to pair with gourmet dishes has made it a favorite among chefs and sommeliers alike.
Looking to the Future
As Valpolicella celebrates its centenary, the future looks bright for Amarone and its fellow wines in the region. The Consorzio’s forward-thinking approach includes sustainability and innovation, ensuring that the region’s historic winemaking traditions remain relevant in the modern world. The spotlight continues to shine on Amarone, with ongoing efforts to expand its international reach while preserving the unique characteristics that make it so special.
In addition to Amarone, other wines from Valpolicella, such as Recioto, Ripasso, and the classic Valpolicella, remain staples of the region’s production. While Amarone may steal the spotlight, the entire Valpolicella portfolio is gaining recognition for its quality, complexity, and ability to pair with diverse cuisines.
Amarone’s Legacy: A Wine for the Ages
Amarone is not just a wine; it’s a cultural symbol of the Veneto region, a product of tradition, passion, and ingenuity. With its ever-growing international reputation and consistent accolades from critics, including James Suckling’s “Wine of the Year” award for Bertani's Amarone 2015, the wine’s prestige continues to rise.
As we look to the future of Valpolicella, it is clear that this exceptional territory, its vineyards, and its wines will remain at the forefront of Italian winemaking, continuing to define the richness of Italy's wine culture for generations to come.
Source: WineNews