At a glance

Producer

Bertani

Region

Valpolicella Classico, Veneto, Italy

Grape variety

Corvina, Rondinella (traditional Amarone blend)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Off-Dry

Typical price

$120-$190 USD (750ml retail, global average)

Tasting profile

Deep ruby with garnet rim. Notes of dried cherry, fig, plum, tobacco, cocoa, balsamic herbs, baking spice. Full-bodied, concentrated, balanced richness and freshness.

Evolution: Will evolve more prune, leather, forest floor, dried flowers, and truffle notes as tertiary character develops.

At peak: Peak maturity will bring integration of dense fruit and savory complexity; smooth texture and persistent finish.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-plus, balancing the wine's richness

Tannins

High, velvety but powerful

Alcohol

15-16% ABV (high for Amarone)

Aging potential

Very high; classic Bertani Amarone can age 20-30 years

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2032

Optimal window

2023 to 2035

Current status

Excellent but young; beginning to open

Current condition

Firm structure, generous fruit, still evolving; secondary complexity emerging

Bertani Amarone is famed for its longevity, traditional appassimento method, and balance of power and freshness. The 2015 vintage is structured and still building secondary complexity; its best expression will be after significant further bottle age. Expect peak to occur between late 2020s and early 2030s.

Food pairing

Braised beef, venison, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, mushroom risotto, or dark chocolate desserts.

Serving

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — The high tannins and age of the wine suggest that decanting will help soften the tannins and enhance the aromas, allowing the wine to express its full complexity.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 5/10

Bertani employs integrated pest management, moderate pesticide use, and water-saving irrigation. Focus on quality fruit and minimal intervention. Some initiatives in lighter glass bottles, but no comprehensive sustainability reporting.

Bertani is a historic, reputable producer using traditional, quality-focused methods but has not adopted leading-edge sustainability or environmental certifications. While efforts are made towards efficient viticulture and energy use, legacy packaging (heavy bottles) and lack of organic/biodynamic certification limit the sustainability score. The carbon footprint is higher than average due to weight and export. Sustainability programs in the region are increasing, but Bertani's specific practices are only moderately progressive.