QUINTARELLI ROSSO DEL BEPI 2016

Giuseppi Quintarelli is known as the "Father of Amarone" and the Quintarelli winery is recognized as one of the best wineries in Veneto. The Quintarelli family only produces their epic Amarone wines in what they feel to be truly exceptional vintages; in what might be considered 'normal' vintages, said fruit is declassified and bottled as 'Rosso del Bepi.' (In 'less than good' vintages, no wines of this style are produced.) So this is, in effect, Amarone in all but name, made exactly the same way and with the same dedication to quality. A blend of 55% Corvina and Corvinone, 30% Rondinella, and a medley of Cabernet Sauvignon, Nebbiolo, Croatina and Sangiovese, the attention to detail along the way is staggering, and the end result is sublime. Understated yet very pretty, showing nuances of woodland berries laced with sour citrus, savory herbs and a hint of animal muskiness. This washes across the palate with silken textures, yet delivers masses of tart red berries and minerals that add grippy tension. Vibrating acidity and bristling tannins will ensure this wine a long life, at the moment it is just pure, unadulterated hedonism.