Amarone vertical tasting: A unique experience tasting different vintages of Amarone
Location: Veneto, Italy
Country: Italy
Rating: 4.4
Supplier Name: Cantina Corte Archi
Intro:
If you’re a wine lover eager to understand the nuances of one of Italy’s most celebrated reds, this Amarone vertical tasting offered by Cantina Corte Archi is a must-try. It’s more than just a tasting—it’s a journey through time that reveals how Amarone evolves with each vintage.
What we love about this experience is its intimate setting, the opportunity to sample multiple vintages side by side, and the chance to walk through the vineyard where the grapes are dried naturally. However, it’s worth noting that the duration is just one hour, so it’s a quick but concentrated experience—perfect for those with limited time or a curiosity for wine aging.
This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts, curious travelers, and anyone wanting a more authentic taste of Veneto’s famous wine culture. If you’re after a relaxed, educational, and sensory-rich outing, this could be just the ticket.
Key Points
- Exclusive vertical tasting of four vintages of Amarone, allowing comparison across years.
- Visit to the vineyard and insight into the drying process that makes Amarone special.
- Visit to the old cellar and processing area to see traditional aging methods firsthand.
- Includes Parmigiano Reggiano cheese that pairs beautifully with the wines for added flavor.
- Small group size (max 8) enhances the personal and immersive feel.
- Flexible booking options include free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
What Makes This Experience Stand Out?
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An Intimate, Authentic Setting
What truly sets this tasting apart is its focus on authenticity. Instead of a large, impersonal tasting room, you’re welcomed into Corte Archi’s small winery, where the aging barrels and drying grapes tell their own story. This approach gives you a clearer understanding of the craftsmanship behind each vintage.
The Vertical Tasting – A Vintage Comparison
Sampling four different vintages—2021, 2020, 2019, and 2017—lets you appreciate how climate, aging, and winemaking choices influence flavor. Several reviewers have noted that this side-by-side comparison helps deepen their appreciation for Amarone’s complexity. One comment mentioned it’s “incredible to see how the wine’s profile matures over a few years” and “how the 2017 has a more intriguing aging profile.”
The Vineyard Walk and Drying Process
The short walk through the vineyard offers a glimpse of the terraced vines that produce these grapes. You also learn about the natural drying process—crucial for Amarone—that involves leaving grapes to wither on mats, concentrating sugars and flavors. This behind-the-scenes look adds a layer of understanding that elevates the tasting.
More Great Tours NearbyTasting with Cheese—A Perfect Match
The inclusion of Parmigiano Reggiano aged 24 months is a smart touch. Several guests noted that the cheese’s saltiness and creaminess complement the wine beautifully, enhancing the sensory experience. It’s a simple yet effective pairing that elevates the tasting without extra fuss.
The Itinerary in Detail
Starting Point: Courtyard near the Cellar
Your journey begins in the charming courtyard in front of the winery, setting a relaxed tone for the experience. Here, the guide introduces the history of Corte Archi and what makes their Amarone unique.
Stop 1: Guided Tour of the Winery (30 Minutes)
Led by knowledgeable guides, this visit covers the old cellar with its traditional wooden barrels and the processing area. Seeing the barrels firsthand gives you an appreciation for the aging process—a craft that’s been handed down through generations. Several reviews mention the guides’ warm, personable approach and their detailed explanations, which make the visit both educational and enjoyable.
Stop 2: Walk Through the Vineyard (10 Minutes)
The short walk through the vineyard offers views of the terraced landscape typical of Valpolicella. You learn about the grapes used and the natural drying process, which is essential for producing Amarone. Travelers note that this walk is scenic and informative, connecting the tasting to the land itself.
Stop 3: Wine Tasting (45 Minutes)
The main event, where you sample the four vintages. Each glass reveals different facets—some brighter and fruit-forward, others more mature and nuanced. Several guests appreciated the variety, commenting that tasting the different vintages side-by-side truly opened their eyes to the aging potential of Amarone. The guide often shares tasting notes and stories behind each vintage, making it more than just a sip.
Ending Point: Return to Starting Location
The experience wraps up back in the courtyard, leaving you with a deeper understanding of the wine and the region.
What’s Included and What Not
Included:
- Four vintages of Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG (2021, 2020, 2019, 2017)
- 24-month aged Parmigiano Reggiano cheese to complement the wines
Not Included:
- Cold cuts platter available upon request for an extra charge, providing an opportunity for a more substantial pairing experience.
Practical Details and Considerations
Duration and Timing
The tour lasts around one hour, with starting times available during the day—making it an easy addition to a day trip. Check availability beforehand to find a time that suits your schedule.
Group Size and Guide
Limited to 8 participants, the small group setting ensures a personal experience with ample opportunity to ask questions and interact with the guide. Guides speak English fluently and are praised for their friendly, informative approach.
Cost and Value
While the exact price isn’t specified here, this type of experience offers good value for those interested in wine appreciation and regional culture. Sampling four vintages with an expert guide, combined with the vineyard visit and cheese pairing, provides a comprehensive snapshot of Amarone’s character and aging potential.
Booking Flexibility
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—ideal if your plans are still flexible.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is best suited for wine enthusiasts eager to deepen their understanding of Amarone, especially those intrigued by how vintages evolve. It’s also perfect for travelers interested in authentic, small-scale winery visits that offer a more personal feel. If you enjoy pairing wine with cheese and learning about traditional production methods, this experience will resonate well.
People looking for a quick, enriching taste of Veneto’s wine heritage will find this a perfect fit—especially as part of a broader exploration of the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a manageable experience for most schedules.
What is included in the tasting?
You’ll taste four different vintages of Amarone, paired with Parmigiano Reggiano cheese aged 24 months.
Is the tour suitable for non-experts?
Absolutely, guides explain everything in an accessible way, making it engaging for all levels of wine knowledge.
Are there options for food pairing?
A platter of cold cuts can be added upon request for an extra cost.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins in the courtyard in front of the winery and concludes there, providing a seamless experience.
Is the group size small?
Yes, limited to 8 participants to foster a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What’s the best time to book?
Check availability for your preferred dates—tours run during daytime hours, with flexible starting times.
In Summary:
This Amarone vertical tasting offers an insightful and authentic peek into Veneto’s winemaking tradition. With a small-group setting, guided vineyard walk, and the chance to compare vintages side-by-side, it’s a rewarding experience for lovers of Italian wine and those curious about aging potential. The inclusion of Parmigiano Reggiano enhances the tasting, making it a well-rounded sensory journey.
Perfect for people wanting to deepen their appreciation of Amarone, it combines education, scenery, and great wine—all within a concise 60-minute format. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to taste some exceptional wine in its birthplace, this tour provides genuine value and memorable moments.
Note: Remember to check the availability and book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on this intimate, educational wine journey.
You can check availability for your dates here: