Amarone vertical tasting: A unique experience tasting different vintages of Amarone

Amarone Vertical Tasting: A Unique Experience Tasting Different Vintages of Amarone

Imagine standing amidst the rolling hills of Veneto, Italy, with a glass of Amarone in hand, tasting multiple vintages that reveal its evolving character. This tour at Cantina Corte Archi offers just that—a chance to trace the journey of this iconic wine through four distinct years, from 2017 to 2021. For around an hour, you’ll explore the winery, walk through the vineyard, and finally indulge in a tasting that promises both education and pleasure.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it combines hands-on insight into the winemaking process with the chance to savor rare verticals—each vintage offering a different story. The tasting is paired beautifully with Parmigiano Reggiano, adding a local touch that elevates the whole experience.

A possible consideration? The tour lasts about an hour, so if you’re seeking a lengthy, in-depth exploration of Veneto’s wine scene, you might find it a bit concise. Still, for those curious about Amarone’s subtle shifts over the years, this is a perfect fit.

This tour suits wine enthusiasts, travelers eager to learn about regional specialties, or anyone looking for a short, authentic taste of Veneto’s viticultural craftsmanship. It’s especially good for visitors who enjoy guided experiences in small groups—limiting to just 8 participants—ensuring a personal and relaxed atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Walk through the vineyard, visit the old cellar, and see where Amarone ages.
• Educational Focus: Learn about the evolution of Amarone over four vintages—2017, 2019, 2020, 2021.
• Authentic Tasting: Sample four different Amarone wines, paired with aged Parmigiano Reggiano.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 8 people for a more intimate, engaging experience.
• Beautiful Setting: Located in Marano di Valpolicella, with picturesque vineyard views.
• Flexible & Bookable: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, reserve now, pay later for flexibility.

Exploring the Tour in Depth

Location and Duration

Set in the picturesque Veneto region, near Marano di Valpolicella, this tour is designed for roughly one hour. The starting point is conveniently located at Via Paverno, 21, where you’ll meet your guide outside the winery’s courtyard. The short duration makes it a manageable addition to your day, but don’t mistake it for a quick sip; it’s packed with meaningful insights.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start in the Old Cellar: This is where you’ll first see the traditional wooden barrels used for aging Amarone. The atmosphere here is rustic and authentic, giving you a real sense of how wines are nurtured over time. The guide, likely a knowledgeable local, will explain the aging process and how the cellar’s microclimate contributes to wine development.

Processing Area and Fruit Cellar: Next, you’ll visit where the grapes are meticulously dried naturally—an essential step in creating Amarone and Recioto. This part of the tour clarifies why Veneto grapes are so special, and how the appassimento method imparts unique flavors and richness to the wine.

Vineyard Walk: A brief stroll through the vineyard offers a chance to see the vines up close, and understand the terraced landscape that defines the region. You’ll get a sense of how the terrain and climate influence the grapes, which directly impacts the wine’s taste profile.

The Tasting: The highlight, where you’ll sample four Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG vintages—2021, 2020, 2019, and 2017. Each wine reveals different nuances, from youthful, untamed vibrancy to more mature, complex layers. Paired with 24-month aged Parmigiano Reggiano, the tasting becomes a true sensory experience.

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What Makes It Special?

The vertical tasting aspect is rare outside of dedicated wine collectors, offering a glimpse into winemaking evolution and vintage variation. We loved the way the guide explained how climatic differences across years influence the wine’s structure and aroma profiles. For example, the 2021 might showcase more freshness, while the older 2017 could reveal deeper, more mature tannins.

Another highlight is the setting—the tasting under the portico or in the tasting room provides a relaxing environment where you can truly savor each sip without rushing. The inclusion of Parmigiano Reggiano is a thoughtful touch, pairing perfectly with the wines’ rich textures and salty notes, enriching the tasting experience.

Practical Considerations

The tour is designed for small groups—up to 8—making it intimate and allowing plenty of opportunity for questions. It’s a well-paced experience, but keep in mind it’s only about an hour; if you’re after a deep dive into the entire region’s wines, this might be just a taste (literally).

The cost includes four vintages of Amarone, which are some of the most renowned in the region, plus cheese. This makes it a solid value especially if you’re a wine lover wanting to see how vintage variation impacts flavor. The optional platter of cold cuts is available upon request, but at an additional cost.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This experience appeals most to wine enthusiasts eager to understand Amarone’s nuances. It’s also perfect for those interested in regional wine techniques, such as the drying process or aging. The relaxed, small-group format suits travelers who enjoy personalized, behind-the-scenes tours, and it’s ideal for a morning or early afternoon activity.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re in Veneto and want a focused, authentic insight into one of Italy’s most celebrated wines, this tour hits the mark. It offers a concise but meaningful look at Amarone’s evolution over time, set in a charming vineyard environment.

The pairing with Parmigiano Reggiano enhances the tasting, making it more than just wine sampling—it’s a full sensory journey. Plus, the chance to see the winemaking process firsthand adds significant value for those curious about how Veneto’s wines get their distinctive character.

For travelers who appreciate small-group experiences, enjoy learning from passionate guides, and want to bring home a deeper understanding of Amarone, this tour provides an excellent balance of education, authenticity, and enjoyment. Just remember, if you’re after a lengthy, in-depth tour of the entire region’s wineries, you might want to consider more extensive options. But for a compact, high-quality taste of Veneto’s Amarone, this experience is hard to beat.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs for approximately one hour, including vineyard walk, cellar visit, and tasting.

What is included in the price?
You’ll taste four different vintages of Amarone—2021, 2020, 2019, and 2017—paired with 24-month aged Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely, the guide explains the process and differences clearly, making it accessible for all levels of wine knowledge.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside the cellar at Via Paverno, 21, and concludes back at the same meeting point.

Is there an option to include food?
A platter of cold cuts is available on request and at an additional charge.

What if I want to visit more wineries?
This tour is a focused, one-hour tasting. For more extensive wine exploration, consider additional tours or tastings in the area.

Is it a small-group experience?
Yes, limited to 8 participants, ensuring a relaxed, personalized environment.

What is the best time to take this tour?
Check availability for start times; morning or early afternoon tours are typical, aligning well with the region’s climate and vineyard views.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or simply curious about Italy’s most famous regional wine, this vertical tasting offers a compact but memorable peek into Amarone’s evolving character. It’s a genuine, enjoyable way to deepen your appreciation for Veneto’s winemaking craft—an experience you’ll remember long after the last sip.

You can check availability for your dates here: