Amarone is not a wine for shrinking palates. Made from dried Corvina and other local grapes, Amarone develops intense and powerful aromas and flavors that marry well with the rich and hearty dishes the human body seeks in cold weather. The 2010 Le Salette La Marega Amarone is still available in the market and should attract the attention of any aficionado of these powerful Veneto reds. Aged in a combination of large Slovenian barrels and small barriques for three years, the La Marega offers a lovely combination of fruit and spice elements. It has a sumptuous bouquet of black cherries, raisins, dark chocolate, espresso, vanilla and clove-like spice. On the palate it has layers of luscious raisin, plum and black cherry fruits with hints of chocolate and cinnamon spice. Richly textured and bold, it has a delectable, silky texture and a long, intriguing finish.
Le Salette, Amarone della Valpolicella (Veneto, Italy) 2010
By Wayne Belding