Amarone della Valpolicella DOC “Costasera” 2000

Masi is one of the best known names in Italian wine and one of the reference producers of Valpolicella. Based in the historic heart of Valpolicella Classica, in the Veneto region of northeastern Italy, the winery is closely tied to the production and international reputation of Amarone della Valpolicella. Its identity is strongly linked to local grape varieties, long family continuity, and a consistent focus on wines that express the character of the Venetian wine regions.

History

The origins of Masi date back to 1772, when the Boscaini family produced its first vintage from vineyards in a small valley called Vaio dei Masi, from which the winery takes its name. The estate has remained in the hands of the Boscaini family for generations, growing from a historic local property into one of the most recognized wine companies in Italy. Over time, Masi expanded its work beyond its original vineyards while remaining firmly rooted in Valpolicella and in the winemaking traditions of the area.

Connection to Amarone

Masi is widely associated with the rise of Amarone as one of Italy’s most respected red wines. The winery played a major role in bringing Amarone to a broad international audience and in defining its image as a wine of depth, structure, and longevity. For many wine drinkers around the world, Masi has become one of the names most closely linked to the Amarone category.

Winemaking Philosophy

The winery combines traditional regional methods with technical research and careful vineyard work. A central part of its approach is the study and preservation of native grape varieties and local production methods. Masi works to protect the identity of the wines of Valpolicella while applying modern knowledge to vineyard management, grape drying, fermentation, and ageing.

Appassimento

One of the defining elements of Masi’s production is appassimento, the traditional drying of grapes after harvest and before fermentation. This method is fundamental to the production of Amarone and Recioto, as it increases concentration, structure, aromatic intensity, and richness. Masi is considered one of the leading specialists of this technique and has helped keep it central to the identity of Valpolicella wines.

Territory and Estates

Although Valpolicella remains the core of the winery, Masi has expanded into other wine areas connected to its broader vision. Its activities include historic estates and projects in the Veneto and Trentino, as well as selected ventures outside Italy. This wider presence allows the winery to work across different styles while keeping its main focus on the wines and grapes of the Venetian tradition.

Grape Varieties

Masi is strongly connected to the classic grapes of Valpolicella, especially Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara. It has also contributed to the recovery and promotion of lesser known native varieties such as Oseleta. This work reflects the winery’s long standing interest in preserving local wine culture and reinforcing the distinct profile of its wines.

Wine Range

The winery produces a broad portfolio that includes Amarone, Recioto, Valpolicella Classico, Valpolicella Superiore, and other wines from related territories. Among its most recognized labels are Costasera Amarone, Vaio Armaron Amarone, Campolongo di Torbe, Mazzano, and Mezzanella. These wines are known for structure, polish, and a style that aims to balance richness with clarity and regional character.

Reputation

Over the centuries, Masi has grown from a family estate into an internationally established winery with a strong export presence. Even with this scale and visibility, it continues to present itself as a producer rooted in place, family continuity, and the long history of Valpolicella. Its reputation rests on consistency, deep knowledge of Amarone, and a clear connection to one of Italy’s most important red wine territories.

Wine Tourism and Hospitality

Masi has also developed a strong hospitality side, welcoming visitors through guided tastings and estate visits that help explain its wines, production methods, and connection to the region. This part of the business supports the winery’s educational role and gives guests a clearer understanding of Amarone, appassimento, and the wider culture of Valpolicella.

Overall Profile

Masi can be described as a historic Veneto winery that has helped define the modern image of Amarone while remaining closely tied to the land, grapes, and traditions of Valpolicella. Its story combines family continuity, regional identity, technical knowledge, and global recognition, making it one of the most influential names in the world of Italian wine.