Time is central to the identity of Giuseppe Quintarelli's Amarone della Valpolicella Classico. The 2019 vintage belongs to a tradition shaped by naturally dried grapes, slow fermentation and extraordinarily long maturation. This is a wine for those who value depth and patience as much as power: a serious, dry red that expresses the historic hills of Valpolicella Classica.

A family estate in the hills of Negrar

The Quintarelli estate is based in Negrar, near Verona, in the heart of Valpolicella's Classico area. Its hillside vineyards have limestone and basalt soils, and the vines average approximately thirty years of age. Meticulous grape selection and traditional cellar practices are integral to the house's character. Its distinctive handwritten-style label has become a recognisable sign of that continuity.

The blend and natural appassimento

The traditional blend combines 55% Corvina and Corvinone together, 30% Rondinella, and a further 15% shared by Cabernet, Nebbiolo, Croatina and Sangiovese. The carefully selected grapes are laid in wooden boxes or on rush mats in the drying loft. They dry naturally until late January, losing water and developing concentration before pressing.

Native yeasts and long oak maturation

After gentle pressing, the must spends approximately 20 days in contact with the skins. Alcoholic fermentation starts with indigenous yeasts and proceeds slowly for around 45 days. The resulting wine then matures for approximately seven years in Slavonian oak casks. This extended period helps the wine develop an intricate aromatic range while preserving a distinctly dry finish.

Tasting character and food pairings

The house style is marked by a deep garnet colour and layered impressions of ripe cherry, bitter almond, spice, tobacco and balsamic notes. The palate is full-bodied, warm and structured, with a lingering, savoury finish. Pair it with slow-braised beef, game stews or aged cheeses, or enjoy it as a contemplative tasting wine. A serving temperature of approximately 18–20°C allows its aromas to unfold.

2019 vintage · Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG · Veneto, Italy · 750 ml bottle · 16.5% ABV. Contains sulphites.