2015 Amarone della Valpolicella TB

The Bussola 2015 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico TB clocks in at a powerful 17.5% alcohol, and it shows plenty of textural fiber and concentration to soak up that heat. This blend of 35% Corvina, 30% Corvinone, 30% Rondinella and 5% Molinara (that ages in oak for 48 months) is redolent of dark cherry confit and baked plums. It also reveals savory spice, smoke and mahogany. To no surprise, you get high octane tones of cherry liqueur or kirsch. Fruit comes from old vines planted in basalt volcanic clay soils. Take care to pair this wine with a fatty or creamy food in order to counter that very high alcohol. Production is 12,857 bottles.