Cecilia Beretta, Terre di Cariano Riserva, Amarone della

Dried for around three months, fermented in stainless steel then matured in various barrels (70% in French oak and Italian cherry barriques; 30% in tonneaux) for 24 months. This 2015 is gorgeously ripe and minty, with notes of dark chocolate, black fruits and earth. Concentrated, inky and meaty, it has a depth to it that absorbs the oak spice, the richness of the fruit and the tannins, giving a smooth and round character. Bright acidity cuts through, making this 15.5% Amarone feel surprisingly light and supple.