Tezza 2021 "Valpantena" Amarone della Valpolicella

Tasting Notes

The Tezza 2021 "Valpantena" Amarone della Valpolicella is a bold, organic Italian red wine crafted by the historic Azienda Agricola Tezza winery from a traditional blend of organically grown Corvina and Rondinella grapes. Sourced from the calcareous, sun-kissed vineyards of the Valpantena subzone in Verona, Italy, these native varietals undergo the appassimento process—where grapes are partially dried in a low-temperature loft before pressing to maximize concentration, depth, and body.

In the glass, this vintage displays a deep ruby red color. The aromatic profile is rich and expressive, offering intense notes of cherry jam, strawberry, black licorice, vanilla, and sweet tobacco leaf. On the palate, it delivers a ripe style balanced by moderate to bright acidity and firm, chalky tannins, revealing layered flavors of dried fruits like plum and raisin alongside hints of clove and earthy herbs. Despite its robust 16% alcohol by volume (ABV), the wine maintains a warm, remarkably velvety texture with an elegant, mouth-watering structure that carries through to a lengthy finis.

This structural concentration makes the 2021 Valpantena Amarone an exceptional partner for hearty, rich, and rustic culinary pairings. It handles intense protein flavors perfectly, pairing beautifully alongside charcoal-grilled meats, roasted lamb with garlic and rosemary, venison chili, and slow-cooked wild boar or beef stews. For a traditional regional match, it is highly recommended to serve it with Pastissada with polenta—a classic Veronese braised horse or beef stew. Beyond meats, its firm tannins and subtle sweet spice notes create a fantastic synergy when paired with savory porcini mushroom risottos or full-flavored, mature hard cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano, Pecorino di Fossa, or rich blue cheese.

750ml