2017 Cielo e Terra Centenero Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG, Veneto

An easy-going Amarone with clean, sweet berries and some vanilla cream. Medium-bodied with fine, well-integrated tannins, compact texture and a focused finish. Nothing complex here, but well done. Drink or hold.

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2017 Cielo e Terra Centenero Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG is a rich and characterful expression of classic Amarone, rooted in the historic hills of Valpolicella where centuries of tradition meet modern precision. The Centenero name refers to the century long heritage of the Cielo family, whose winemaking history stretches back to 1908, while the broader Cielo e Terra project represents a union of family growers dedicated to expressing Veneto terroir with integrity. The vineyards lie on limestone and clay slopes north of Verona, where elevation and cooling Alpine influences help preserve freshness even in such a powerful style. Grapes are traditionally pergola trained, allowing airflow and even ripening, a key factor for high quality Amarone fruit.

The 2017 vintage was warm and concentrated, perfectly suited to Amarone. Corvina, Corvinone and Rondinella were hand harvested and slowly dried using the traditional appassimento method, concentrating sugars, flavours and texture over several months before fermentation. This careful process is central to Amarone’s identity and is handled with great attention at Cielo e Terra to maintain balance rather than excess. Aging in oak brings polish and depth, but the focus remains firmly on fruit purity and regional character.

In the glass the wine shows a deep garnet colour with ruby highlights. Aromas are intense and layered, offering dried cherry, fig, plum compote, dark chocolate, sweet spice, tobacco and a subtle balsamic note that is typical of Valpolicella. The palate is full bodied and generous, delivering waves of Amarena cherry, cocoa, espresso and dried herbs, supported by silky tannins and a long, warming yet balanced finish. Despite its richness, there is a surprising freshness that keeps the wine lively and food friendly.

This Amarone is ideal with slow braised beef, venison, rich pasta dishes, hard aged cheeses or enjoyed slowly on its own. It has the structure to age gracefully for ten to fifteen years, developing more leather, spice and savoury complexity over time. Centenero Amarone captures the heart of Veneto tradition while offering a polished, modern take on one of Italy’s most iconic wines.