A sweet, red, aged wine, Recioto is a traditional wine of the Valpolicella area. Its preciousness derives from its maturation – in very limited quantities – using a method that is both complex and natural, and unfiltered. From San Pietro in Cariano & Pedemonte di Valpolicella, the soil is very varied; mainly red clay and limestone of glacial origin. Alberto’s  Recioto displays a deep ruby red colour with garnet reflections.

It is instantly recognizable on the nose because of the intensity and breadth of its seductive and incredibly elegant bouquet, in which one finds suggestions of violets, ripe, fleshy cherries, plums and raisins. Hints of sweet spices, caramel and dark tobacco-like notes are also in evidence. On the palate it is full and complex, rounded and fruity, but at the same time refined and well-balanced. It is lively in spite of its decidedly sweetish style, and has a slight flavour of almonds on the finish. It offers an elegant freshness combined with robust structure, and is very long.

On a mission to find the best Amarone for our Christmas range 2020, I went to the Vinitaly Trade Wine Fair in Verona with a view to single-mindedly taste my way through all the Amarone producers in the Veneto Hall. The very first stand (right by the side entrance, not the main entrance which was too busy) was Brunelli Vini. The very first taste was enough to suggest it would be a good day. First day, first stand, first wine – excellent. What more was in store? However, as I progressed tasting other producers, I had to keep going back to Brunelli’s stand to double check. Maybe I was giddy with the excitement of the first taste of the day. But, no; every time I went back they were still the best. Martina must have thought I was some saddo with nowhere else to go. By the end of the day with over 120 Amarones tasted I went back to the best and tasted through their whole range. The result was we shipped two of their Amarones, the Ripasso and the white Bianco di Custoza. Located exactly between Verona and Lake Garda, Valpolicella mineral soil is rich in limestone. The Mediterranean climate influenced by the breezes coming from the lake nearby and an ideal South-Southwest exposure combine with skillful and passionate work in the vineyards and with the appassimento technique to produce their extraordinary Amarone and Ripasso. And don’t forget the Bianco di Custoza which was voted Favourite Wine in our Lockdown Zoom Wine Tastings. The Estate is now in the hands of Alberto and his parents Luciana and Luigi. A mere twenty minutes from Verona and in the middle of their vineyards their holiday accommodation is also wonderful. We now stay there every Vinitaly.

A dessert wine that is excellent with dry pastries, almonds, panettone, strawberries and other wild berry fruits, or served with blue and mature cheeses. Serve at 16°C (61°F).