Tenuta Sant’Antonio – a prestigious family winery run by the Castagnedi brothers, located in the Valpolicella region east of Verona. The winery is known for its modern approach, precise grape selection and high standards in winemaking. “Antonio Castagnedi” is one of their emblematic Amarone wines – powerful, noble and created using the traditional appassimento method, which concentrates the aromas and structure of the grapes.
Terroir
The vineyards are located in the hilly terrain of Valpolicella, at an altitude of between 250–350 m. The soils are rich in limestone, basalt and minerals, which provides excellent drainage and contributes to the complexity and elegant structure of Amarone. The climate is temperate, with the influence of Lake Garda, which creates ideal conditions for the grapes to ripen slowly and develop a rich aromatic profile.
Vinification
The grapes (Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella and other local varieties) are harvested by hand and left to dry for 3–4 months in special drying rooms (fruttai), thus concentrating sugars, aromatic substances and phenols.
After a period of appassimento, there follows:
slow fermentation at a controlled temperature;
prolonged maceration;
aging for 24–30 months in large oak barrels and barriques, which forms the characteristic depth and velvety structure of Amarone.
Organoleptic characteristics
Aroma
Intense and multi-layered nose with notes of dried cherries, black plums, raisins, figs and dark chocolate. Nuances of sweet spices, vanilla, leather, tobacco and a light minerality, typical of high-quality Amarone.
Taste
Dense, warm and velvety, with exceptional concentration. Rich flavors of dried fruits, dark chocolate, liqueur nuances, smoke, coffee and sweet spices. The tannins are ripe and smooth, the acidity is balanced, the finish is long, powerful and noble.
Food pairings
Ideal for red meats, game, mature cheeses, pasta with rich meat sauces, roast lamb and veal. Also wonderful for slow dinners and special occasions, as a wine for meditation.
Serving temperature
18°–20°C
It is recommended to open the wine in advance or decant it.