Monte Roncá Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG Classico 2017

Why is this Wine so Yummy?

About Monte Roncá

Antonio started making wine in Soave with his father in the late 70s, and was instrumental in introducing more modern winemaking techniques, such as controlled temperatures, as well as more sustainable vineyard practices. At the summit of the estate, a new winery and appassimento facility were recently built where, at this altitude, the cool, ventilating air is ideal for the rack-drying process, expanding their capabilities and allowing the production of premium red wines.

The Monte Ronca reds are an exciting addition to our range, and the Colle Marianna whites, which Antonio has spent almost 40 years perfecting, are pure, highly aromatic and complex, while still having plenty of texture.

The Garganega, Trebbiano di Soave and Durello sites are on the steep basalt slopes of Monte Calvarino, which are rich in volcanic soil and as high as 450 metres. Most of the wines from this part of the Veneto come off the valley floor, which is heavily responsible for the region often being known for relativity simple, at times bland, wines. Antonio understands that these high altitudes are paramount to maintaining freshness, acidity and a mineral undertone to his wines. He is also a strong believer in not blending the white varieties (which is common with other producers, particularly with Soave) to allow them to show their individual varietal characters.

The Monte Ronca reds reflect Antonio’s desire to create exceptionally vibrant, balanced and pure wines that show complexity and structure. The traditional varieties of Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella and a tiny amount of Teroldego are planted on the estate and these are used in the Valpolicella and Valpolicella Ripasso DOCs, as well as the Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG. The soil found in these vineyards is made up mostly of limestone and yellow sandstone of volcanic origin.

Vibrancy, balance and freshness are overlaying themes, and it is rare to find a winemaker from this region that seeks such elegance in the wines they produce. Antonio is one of those leading the charge, embracing the past, yet moving subtly away from practices that sometimes hide identity, to create more energetic and personality filled expressions of his region

In the Vineyard

In the Winery

The Monte Ronca Amarone consists of Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella and again a small quantity of Teroldego. The 2015 was the first vintage to be made at the new facility at the top of Antonio’s estate in Valpolicella. Once harvested, the grapes are placed into small ‘fruttaio’ boxes for drying. While most Amarone producers rack-dry their fruit for 6+ months, Antonio chooses to dry the grapes for a shorter period of 3–4 months. This still achieves all the power and richness but allows for vibrancy to shine through. The dried grapes are fermented with natural yeast and are aged for 36 months in 1000-litre wooden barrels. The wine is dark, rich, brooding and spicy. Fermented almost to dryness, the Amarone has layers of complexity, with intense red cherries, almond and chocolate on the nose. The palate is surprisingly elegant, perfectly in harmony between the rich, concentrated fruit, lively acidity and supple velvety tannins.

The 2017 Vintage at Monte Roncá

Where in the World is Monte Roncá?

Monte Roncá is located in Veneto in Valpolicella.