Costasera Riserva Amarone 2012

The premium Riserva version of Costasera, crafted from the finest grape selections of the vintage. Extended appassimento of a minimum 120 days on bamboo racks, followed by a minimum of 3 years of ageing in finest oak casks. An exclusive blend of 70% Corvina, 15% Rondinella, 10% Oseleta and 5% Molinara. Oseleta, a variety rediscovered by Masi in the 1980s, contributes exceptional concentration, structure and tannins.

A hot vintage with dry winds blowing throughout the summer season, ideal conditions for the appassimento process, concentrating aromatics and natural sugars to exceptional levels. Costasera refers to the slopes facing the sunset — the finest in the Valpolicella Classica for producing high-quality Amarone.

Syrupy, dark and very rich, with tar and tobacco in the mouth and a very thick, velvety texture. Cocoa, baked plum, toast, culinary spice and leather on the nose, closing on an espresso note. Tobacco and smoke notes herald this balanced Amarone in a more traditional style, with firm tannins well-meshed with flavours of black currant, date and Earl Grey tea. Rated 95/100 Robert Parker — 94/100 James Suckling — 94/100 Wine Enthusiast — 93/100 Tasting Panel — 92/100 Wine Spectator — 92/100 Wine & Spirits.

Serve at 18°C. Ideal with red meat, game and mature cheeses. Fine after-dinner meditation wine. Decant for at least 1 hour before serving. Best enjoyed through 2047.