2009 Masi Riserva Costasera Amarone Della Valpolicella

The expert use of indigenous grapes for the Valpolicella Classica area - Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara - is enriched by the addition of the unique Oseleta, a grape variety rediscovered by Masi. The 2009 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Costasera opens to a bright ruby color and dark aromas of dried fruit, raisin, tar, grilled herb and licorice. It imparts a texture that is soft, soothing and rich. It is drinking young right now and could use another three to five years of bottle aging for more evolution and complexity. Alcohol 15.5%, Drink now to 2028.

95 points – James Suckling

‘Lots of ripe, almost raisin character on the nose yet it remains plump and intense. Full-bodied, juicy and soft with plenty of flavourful fruit from dried berries and hints of raisins. Long and very intense.’

The 2009 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Costasera is a richly layered Amarone that shows youthful energy and budding complexity despite the fact it is only at the beginning of its evolutionary course. Immediate layers of dried fruit and pressed blackberry peel back to reveal etched mineral tones, loads of tobacco, exotic spice and even a hint of bitter chocolate. Like many of the best Amarones on the market, this wine is distinguished by its exceptional mouthfeel: Softness, thickness, sweetness and dark concentration are among its best assets.