Amarone & Valpolicella wines from 2011

A tremendous vintage by any standards. The rain fell when it was wanted, early in the spring where it helped hydrate the vines, and was followed by an exceptionally hot late summer and harvest season. The hydration in the vines, the cooling breezes and the large diurnal temperature variation contributed to the strong ripening and high retention of acidity prior to picking. A very dry winter followed, leading to very even appassimento across the region, with excellent raisinification. Wines from this year have proved extraordinary, with deep power, increasing complexity and a remarkably refreshing acidity, and should prove themselves, not just now, but for many years to come.