Rizzardi Calcarole Amarone Della Valpolicella Riserva 2017
Rizzardi Calcarole Amarone Della Valpolicella Riserva 2017
- Vintage: 2017
- Size: 750ml
- Type: Red
- Alcohol: 16%
- Varietal: Amarone
- Grapes: Valpolicella Blend
- Winery: Rizzardi
- Region: Veneto
- Country: Italy
This opulent single vineyard Amarone is only produced by the Rizzardi family during the very best vintages. The prized Calcarole vineyard is situated in the heart of Negrar in Valpolicella and has a particularly warm microclimate thanks to the steep hillside setting with a southwestern aspect and stony soils.
All of the grapes chosen for this wine are harvested by hand and undergo rigorous selection in the vineyard. In accordance with the traditional method of making Amarone, the grapes are dried in a well-ventiliated room for three and a half months to concentrate their aromas, flavours and sugars. They are then slowly fermented over the course of a month and matured for 12 months in smaller 5hl oak barrels followed by a further 24 months in 25hl oak casks.
The result is a decadent ruby-hued wine that explodes with rich aromas of black cherry jam, cinnamon, cloves and hints of dark chocolate and raisins. The first sip reveals a full body, firm structure and silky smooth mouthfeel with intense dark berry flavours balanced by a touch of freshness. This big personality would make an excellent match for intensely-flavoured dishes like roast venison, beef stroganoff or a generous hunk of aged Gran Padano cheese.
A Birthday to Remember with DAOU & Colomé Celebrating my mother’s birthday was made even more special thanks to two incredible wines—DAOU Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 and Colomé Auténtico Malbec 2020. The star of the evening was undoubtedly the DAOU Cabernet Sauvignon. From the first sip, it enveloped us in its rich, velvety embrace. The deep dark fruit flavors, hints of cocoa, and perfectly balanced oak made every glass feel like a true indulgence. It was bold yet elegant, a wine that effortlessly brought warmth and joy to our gathering. Seeing my mother savor each sip with a smile made it all the more memorable. The Colomé Auténtico Malbec also delivered beautifully, with its pure expression of high-altitude Malbec. It was powerful, with ripe blackberries, spice, and a smooth, lingering finish—an excellent complement to the evening. These wines didn’t just enhance our meal; they became part of the celebration, elevating every toast and conversation. A heartfelt thank you to DAOU and Colomé for making this special occasion truly unforgettable!