2020 Masi Costasera Amarone Della Valpolicella, Veneto

A restrained and reductive style, showing aromas of bay leaves, red and black cherries and a whiff of flowers. Full-bodied, it has a compact profile on the palate with ripe and velvety tannins, tight-knit acidity and a superprecise finish. A bit technical and young at the moment but very good. It is drinkable now, but wait for more complexity to develop. Try from 2030.

94 points jamessuckling.com

From the sun drenched hillsides of Valpolicella Classica comes one of the most recognised names in Amarone. Masi has been rooted in Veneto since the eighteenth century, with the Boscaini family guiding the estate for generations. Costasera, meaning slope facing the setting sun, refers to vineyards that capture afternoon warmth, ideal for fully ripening Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara before the traditional appassimento drying process begins. Masi has long refined this historic method, drying the grapes carefully through winter to concentrate flavour while preserving aromatic integrity. The estate is widely regarded as a benchmark producer of Amarone della Valpolicella, blending heritage with meticulous research into indigenous varieties and site expression.

The colour is deep garnet with brick red reflections, showing both intensity and maturity. Aromas are powerful yet layered, revealing dried cherry, black plum and fig intertwined with cocoa, sweet spice and hints of tobacco. There is a distinct balsamic lift and a savoury edge of leather and forest floor that add complexity and regional character.

On the palate it is full bodied and richly textured, yet surprisingly structured and composed. Concentrated dark fruit sits at the core, framed by velvety tannins and balanced acidity that prevents heaviness. Notes of dark chocolate, espresso and dried herbs build through the mid palate, leading to a long, warming finish marked by spice, dried cherry and subtle oak integration. Despite its power, there is a clarity and definition that underline its quality.

This Amarone pairs beautifully with braised beef short ribs, venison with juniper, aged Parmigiano Reggiano or rich porcini risotto. It benefits from decanting in its youth and will cellar confidently for twenty years or more, evolving into deeper layers of leather, dried fruit and earthy savoury complexity.