🇮🇹 Le Clivie Il Cigno dell’Avon Amarone della Valpolicella D.O.C.G.

Description

Le Clivie Il Cigno dell’Avon Amarone della Valpolicella D.O.C.G. is the flagship expression of the historic Valpolicella Classica region, a wine that embodies centuries of winemaking tradition and deep respect for the unique terroir of the Veronese hills. Produced by Dacastello Vini Pregiati, this Amarone stands as one of the most prestigious and representative red wines of Italy, crafted exclusively from native grapes that have been cultivated in this area for generations.

The wine takes its name from the traditional production method known as appassimento, a meticulous and time-honoured process that sets Amarone apart from all other red wines. Harvest begins in early October, when only the healthiest, most perfectly ripened bunches of Corvina, Corvinone, and Rondinella grapes—with a small permitted addition of up to 5% other local varieties—are carefully hand‑selected. These grapes are then laid out on bamboo racks or wooden trays in well‑ventilated drying rooms, where they are left to wither naturally for three to four months. During this period, the grapes lose approximately 30% of their water content, concentrating sugars, aromas, tannins, and natural flavours to an exceptional degree. This slow, natural dehydration is the heart of Amarone’s character, giving it the richness and complexity that have made it famous worldwide.

Fermentation takes place only in January or February, once the grapes have reached their ideal concentration. The dried berries are gently destemmed and crushed, then fermented in temperature‑controlled steel tanks at 18–21 °C for around 30 days. This slow, controlled process preserves the delicate aromatic compounds while allowing the wine to develop its full structural depth. The result is a wine of remarkable intensity, with a deep, luminous garnet‑red colour that evolves towards rich brick‑red hues as it ages.

On the nose, this Amarone offers an extraordinarily complex and layered bouquet: intense notes of ripe black cherry, dried plum, and sun‑dried fig blend harmoniously with hints of violet, leather, sweet tobacco, dark chocolate, and warm spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. Subtle earthy and balsamic undertones add further depth, creating a truly captivating aromatic profile.

On the palate, it is full‑bodied, velvety, and exceptionally well‑structured, with smooth yet firm tannins and a balanced acidity that provides freshness and longevity. The concentrated fruit flavours are beautifully integrated with savoury and spicy notes, leading to a long, persistent, and elegantly warm finish. With an alcohol content of 15% vol, total acidity of 5.6 g/l, and residual sugar of 4 g/l, it strikes the perfect balance between richness and drinkability, avoiding any sense of heaviness.

A wine built for ageing, it has no fixed expiry date and can be stored for 15 to 25 years or even longer when kept in a cool, dark, and humid environment. It is recommended to decant it for at least one hour before serving at 18–20 °C, preferably in large tulip‑shaped glasses to fully appreciate its complex aromas.

This Amarone has earned international recognition, including a Gold Medal at the London Wine Competition 2023, confirming its outstanding quality and craftsmanship. It is the quintessential expression of the Valpolicella terroir: a wine that reflects the mild climate, southern exposure, and natural protection of the Lessini Mountains to the north, which create ideal conditions for slow ripening and drying of the grapes.

Le Clivie Il Cigno dell’Avon Amarone della Valpolicella D.O.C.G. is more than just a wine; it is a true masterpiece of Italian enology, perfect for special occasions, long‑term cellaring, and pairing with the most refined and flavourful dishes.