At a glance

Producer

Bertani

Region

Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG, Veneto, Italy

Grape variety

Corvina Veronese (80%), Rondinella (20%)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$75-$100

Tasting profile

Rich aromas of dried cherries, spice, tobacco, leather, and hints of vanilla; palate is full-bodied with layered dark fruit, cocoa, and balsamic notes

Evolution: Over next 5-10 years, expect savory tertiary notes to develop with softer tannins and integration of oak

At peak: Balances dark fruit and complex tertiary flavors with harmonized tannins and acidity delivering elegance and depth

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to high, characteristic of quality Amarone lending freshness

Tannins

Firm and ripe with good grain supporting long-term aging

Alcohol

Typically around 15-16%

Aging potential

20+ years from vintage, excellent for long-term cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2020 to 2049

Optimal window

2017 to 2052

Current status

Approaching optimal drinking window with good structure for further aging

Current condition

Currently showing primary and developing mature notes with robust tannins and balanced acidity

The 2012 vintage in Valpolicella was excellent, producing structured Amarone with concentrated fruit and balanced acidity. Bertani’s traditional appassimento drying and aging in large Slovenian oak casks ensure slow tannin maturation and complexity, enabling a long drinking window peaking about 8-15 years post vintage.

Food pairing

Pairs beautifully with game meats, aged cheeses, grilled lamb, beef stew, rich mushroom dishes, and hearty pasta with meat sauces.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften robust tannins and allow rich aromas to open up

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Bertani implements water conservation, soil management, and energy efficiency improvements in vineyard and winery; uses large format oak barrels reducing waste

Bertani maintains progressive sustainability with focus on reducing chemical inputs and improving ecosystem health, energy use optimization, and responsible water management. While not certified organic or biodynamic, their sustainable farming and responsible production reduce environmental impact substantially.