The Protected Designation of Origin "Amarone della Valpolicella" (DOCG) includes three types of wine, identified as "Classico", "Valpantena" and "Riserva".
Grapes
"Amarone della Valpolicella" wines must contain grapes from two main varieties: Corvina Veronese and Rondinella. The Corvina Veronese and Corvinone must be present for a share between 45% and 95%. The Rondinella, on the other hand, must be present for a share between 5% and 30%. Finally, up to a maximum of 25% of other non-aromatic, autochthonous Italian red grapes grown in the Province of Verona may be used.
Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties
They have a deep red colour, which tends to turn garnet with ageing. The smell is characteristic and accentuated, reminiscent of tobacco, dried fruit and spices. It has a full, velvety and warm flavour. The minimum actual alcoholic strength by volume is 14% vol.
Grape production area
"Amarone della Valpolicella" is produced in Valpolicella, a hilly area located in the western part of Veneto, in the province of Verona.
Specificity and historical notes
"Amarone della Valpolicella" is one of the most long-lived Italian wines. Its first ancestor was the Acinatico, which is mentioned in a letter from Cassiodoro, minister of the Visigoth king Theodoric, who lived in the fifth century AD. The same wine is also mentioned in the Edict of Rotari, 643 AD.
Source:
MIPAAF - Ministry of agricultural, food and forestry policies