Costasera Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 0.375L

Amarone by the half bottle — ideal if you want to enjoy the great wine without the big commitment. The Costasera from Masi is one of the most mature entry-level Amarones: approachable, yet with the typical intensity of the appassimento method.

Masi has been cultivating vineyards in Valpolicella Classico , the historic heartland east of Lake Garda, since the 18th century. Their Costasera blends the three classic grape varieties Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara. After harvesting, the grapes dry for several months on bamboo trellises ( arele ) before fermentation. This significantly concentrates the sugars, aromas, and extract.

In the glass , aromas of dark cherry, blackberry, and black plum are revealed, complemented by notes of dark chocolate, tobacco, and a touch of cedar. The body is full, the tannins velvety and well-integrated, the finish long and slightly bitter—typical of the grape variety and winemaking style. A 95-point rating from James Suckling (2015 vintage) confirms this quality.

Food pairings: Braised beef cheek, venison ragù, pecorino stagionato, or dark chocolate (over 70%). Temperature: 16–18 °C, ideally open an hour beforehand. The 0.375-liter bottle is perfect for two glasses to accompany the cheese course.