Cellaring Amarone

MG · Post by MG » Wed Sep 28, 2005 2:54 pm

Hi there. I've been lurking on the forum for a little while but an experience at a tasting a few days ago has prompted me to 'cross over' and post something, even though it is only a question.

For the first time, I had a chance to try an Amarone (2000 Masi Costasera Amarone Classico DOC) and it was a revelation. The host of the tasting told me that it could live in the cellar for well over 30 years, although she couldn't tell me how it would develop after that long.

If anyone has tried an Amarone with more than a couple of decades on it, I'd love to hear what you thought! Thanks

Ian S · Post by **Ian S** » Fri Sep 30, 2005 5:07 am

Sorry can't help you as our oldest is a 97. However Toby Bailey (Fine Wine Diary - a site shared with his bro') has 26 notes for amarone if you type it in the search - some aged bottles mixed in with newer bottles. Bear in mind he's
a) A harsh marker
b) Got a more "european" palate than most on this board
c) Likes older wines but not afraid to call it "over the hill"

2000 by the way is reckoned to be pretty good there, so might be worth buying a few. Masi are a big, but well regarded producer.

Hope this helps anyway

Ian

Maximus · Post by **Maximus** » Fri Sep 30, 2005 6:13 am

MG,

There's no doubt that good Amarones can last the distance, with some drinking wonderfully well over 30 years later.

The oldest I've tried is an '85, and this was actually a Masi too. Still far, far too young, super concentrated and although pruney, starting to exhibit some real complexity on the nose and it was a great experience. I think the '85 needs another twenty years, based on the bottle I tasted.

Keep a lookout for the Amarone style grenache that Drew Noon does as well. Unless you're on his mailing list, you'll have to pay the premium on the secondary market, but this still represents good value, and those 500ml bottles are cool too. The 2002 is a cracker and I have a couple of 98's waiting to be drunk back home. This wine doesn't have the same ageing prospect as its Italian brothers though.

Cheers,

Ian S · Post by **Ian S** » Fri Sep 30, 2005 7:08 am

Interestingly had a glass of a 99 Masi Corbec tonight (Amarone method, but made in Argentina). We've had their Passo Doble (very good wine & excellent value) before, but this is step up. Maybe the oak is a little strong as it smells strongly of old wood & cigars, but with good depth of fruit & supporting (but unobtrusive acidity). Definitely some mushrooms in the mix and long tannins that give it a very dry finish. Alcohol (14.5%) kept in check much better than a recent Tedeschi Amarone.

I've a feeling this would keep quite nicely (there's already good balance to the wine), but it went a treat with a rather hot Goan chicken curry.

Masi seem to be in the "safe bet" category

Ian

Adam · Post by **Adam** » Fri Sep 30, 2005 2:59 pm

I had a 1977 Masi recently, was porty and plump. So much sweetness...was really out of balance and not enjoyable.

MG · Post by MG » Mon Oct 03, 2005 9:40 am

Thanks guys, that helps a lot. I've never heard of the Masi Corbec before but it sounds like I'll have to add it to my long list of things to look out for.