2009 Dal Forno Amarone Della Valpolicella, Veneto, Italy

ABOUT THE WINECrafted from a meticulous selection of Corvina, Rondinella, Croatina, and Oseleta grapes, the 2009 Amarone della Valpolicella is a masterclass in precision and power. Grapes are hand-harvested and then dried for approximately 90 days using advanced drying rooms that ensure optimal conditions and minimal botrytis. This appassimento process concentrates sugars, acids, and phenolics, setting the stage for the wine’s depth and longevity. Fermentation occurs over several weeks in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by extended aging—typically around 24 months in new French oak barriques and additional time in bottle before release. The 2009 vintage was marked by a warm, stable growing season, producing Amarone with richness and early accessibility without compromising cellar potential. The result is a wine of extraordinary concentration and detail—black plum, dried raspberry, molasses, graphite, and wild herbs mingle with a touch of smokiness from the oak. I