wines of romano dal forno - amarone, valpolicella

We are delighted to offer the new vintages from the remarkable Romano Dal Forno, which include for the first time an incredible Passito in addition to the already world-famous Amarone della Valpolicella and Valpolicella Superiore.

Today, Dal Forno is indisputably the number one producer in the Veneto with his Amarone and Valpolicellas amongst the most revered in the whole of Italy. It is incredible to think that this has been achieved in such a short amount of time but Romano is a workaholic and has re-examined every part of the traditional production process, making changes wherever he felt that they would improve quality but without ever losing touch with the identity of the Veneto and its soils.

Amongst those changes have been the move away from large old Slavonian cask to small new barriques; an increased density of planting to make the vines work harder; severe pruning and draconian selection of fruit; removing the Molinara grape so adhered to by others but so lacklustre in Dal Forno’s eyes and replacing it with the ancient Oseleta to compliment the Corvina and Rondinella. Dal Forno has managed to demonstrate how the principles of modern oenology can be adapted in order to improve the quality of wine without debasing the long standing traditions of his area. His wines are unconditionally revolutionary, but at the same time they are both true and genuine Valpolicella and Amarone della Valpolicella.

The risks have been great and the financial investment enormous but tasting these wines alongside many others from the region shows a gaping chasm in quality. Despite his recent additions in vineyard area, the production is still painfully small – typically only 20 bottles of Amarone result from 100 kilos of grapes! The flagship wine, the Valpolicella Superiore, has beautiful deep colours of dark ruby with clear purple traces, fragrance of sweet cherry, vanilla and spices. In the mouth it combines richness, softness and harmony, underpinned by a majestic structure and unbelievable level of concentration. The Amarone, made from dried grapes but from exactly the same vineyard sources as the Valpolicella, is a mesmerising wine and the sort of wine that all wine lovers should try but beware - once indulged in it you will probably become a hostage forever! The new baby, the Passito “Vigna Seré” is a decadently sweet, intense and totally unique wine and instantly takes its place alongside the greatest dessert wines. Available only in half bottles and in tiny quantities, it will be sold subject to allocation.

The vintages 2002 and 2003 in the Veneto were a challenge, as they indeed were in most of Italy. Those willing to work hard, select with rigour, declassify where necessary and adapt to the conditions have succeeded with excellent wines and Dal Forno is most definitely in that category. Neither vintage will be considered classic or typical but for those who are more concerned with wonderful wine to enjoy, there is certainly nothing to fear.

Buy 6 bottles of Amarone della Valpolicella and 12 bottles of Valpolicella Superiore for £1395 IB - Save £240! - order here

Shows aromas of leather, smoked ham, prune, tarry mineral and dried flowers. An amazing panoply for a 2002, which was a weak vintage. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, intense, peppery finish. Given the difficulties of the vintage, this is a fine effort by Dal Forno. Drink now through 2016. 910 cases made. – 92 points, Wine Spectator

grape varieties 60% Corvina and big Corvina, 20% Rondinella, 10% Croatina, 10% Oseleta

A big, burly red, with lots of charred oak and smoky bacon character coloring the rich, ripe crushed berry fruit. Hints of flowers and black cardamom add to the complexity. Full-bodied, with well-poised, velvety tannins that capture the flavors and drive them through the long finish. Needs cellaring, but this is fabulous now too. Best after 2010. 2,080 cases made. – 93 points, Wine Spectator

grape varieties 70% Corvina and big Corvina, 20% Rondinella, 5% Croatina, 5% Oseleta.

Has an enticing nose, with prune, tar, espresso and dried nuts. Full- to medium-bodied, with good supportive tannins that turn chewy on the finish and lots of dark chocolate and mocha that linger at the end. This will be worth the wait. Superintense and layered. Like a baby vintage Port. A new passito wine from Dal Forno. Best after 2009. 700 cases made. – 94 points, Wine Spectator

grape varieties 55% Corvina, 15% Rondinella, 20% Croatina, 10% Oseletta

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