The 2016 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Sergio Zenato takes its time opening in the glass, dark and floral with a grumbling of exotic spices, dark chocolate and, with time, rosy red berries. It’s velvety-smooth and opulent in style, powerful yet soft and enveloping with masses of medicinal berries and exotic spice, dark chocolate and balsam herbs. It leaves a coating of grippy tannins through the heady finale, and yet, the expression remains remarkably fresh. Be aware that this is a richer and riper style of Amarone; but that said, it’s done remarkably well.

By Eric Guido January 2022