Bixio "Bronze" Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 2017

This limited-quantity 2017 vintage is not available at LCBO stores.

Bixio "Bronze" Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG is an excellent example of an authentic style of Amarone where the grapes have had a shorter appassimento—drying time—(2-3 months rather than, say, a more traditional 5 months) and the wine has spent between 1 and 2 years in oak aging, as opposed to 2 years or more.

This makes for a more easy-drinking style of authentic Amarone, a "younger brother" if you will, offering fine quality at a more affordable price than a typically quite expensive classic or reserve Amarone.

Grape Varieties: 70% local Corvina, 20% Rondinella, 10% Molinara.

Origin: The hills surrounding the village of Badin in Marano, in the Valpolicella Classico region, Veneto, northern Italy.

Aging: Aging in oak barrels for at least one year, followed by 3 months refinement in the bottle.

Alcohol: 15.5%.

Tasting Notes: Intense ruby-red color. Complex aroma with hints of plum jam and balsamic vinegar. On the palate, it is full-bodied and balanced, with flavor notes of blackberry jam, black currants and chocolate.

Food Pairing: Excellent with strongly flavored dishes such as roasted red meats, braised meats, game, grilled meats, and strongly flavored hard cheeses.

Serving Temperature: 18° to 20°C (room temperature or a bit lower).