At a glance

Producer

Quintarelli

Region

Valpolicella Classico, Veneto, Italy

Grape variety

Corvina, Rondinella, Molinara

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$300-$450

Tasting profile

Notes of dried cherries, raisins, tobacco, leather, spice, and hints of cocoa; dense and layered

Evolution: Fruit will soften, tannins integrate further, tertiary notes of truffle and forest floor will emerge

At peak: Complex balance of dark fruit, earth, spice, and elegant oak with velvety mouthfeel and lingering finish

Structure

Acidity

High, balanced to preserve freshness over long aging

Tannins

Firm and well-integrated, classic Amarone structure

Alcohol

High (approximately 15-16%)

Aging potential

25-35 years from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2030 to 2054

Optimal window

2025 to 2057

Current status

Young but approachable with decanting

Current condition

Structured tannins and concentrated fruit with pronounced acidity; benefits from additional aging

Quintarelli’s Amarone from 2017 shows the hallmark structure and concentration for long aging due to late harvest and appassimento drying. High natural acidity and robust tannins preserve vitality for decades; 2017 being a warm but balanced vintage supports strong fruit that will evolve gracefully through the 2030s.

Food pairing

Pair with hearty dishes such as braised beef, game meats, aged cheeses, and mushroom risotto. Complements rich flavors without overpowering.

Serving

Serving temperature

18-20°C / 64-68°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften tannins and open complex aromas

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Traditional viticulture with care for soil health, use of natural yeasts, minimal intervention; efforts in water conservation and controlled vine density; packaging uses lightweight glass

Quintarelli embraces traditional farming methods respectful of terroir and environment, focusing on quality over quantity which often correlates with lower resource use per bottle. While lacking explicit organic/biodynamic certifications, their farming includes sustainable measures. The global export footprint adds carbon cost but is offset by their careful production scale and efficient practices.