Buglioni Teste Dure Amphora Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva DOCG 2015

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1993 in the heart of Valpolicella Classica, Buglioni Winery is a family-run estate that has rapidly gained recognition for its innovative approach to traditional winemaking. Embracing both heritage and experimentation, Buglioni has introduced unique techniques, such as aging in amphorae, to produce distinctive wines that reflect the terroir of the region. Their commitment to quality and authenticity has positioned them as a notable producer in the Veneto wine landscape.

Producer and Winemaker

The Buglioni family oversees the winery’s operations, with a focus on combining traditional methods with modern innovations. Their dedication to excellence is evident in their meticulous vineyard management and winemaking processes. By embracing techniques like amphora aging, they aim to highlight the purity and complexity of their wines, offering a fresh perspective on classic Valpolicella expressions.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The grapes for the Teste Dure Amphora Amarone are sourced from estate-owned vineyards located in the Valpolicella Classica zone. This area benefits from a favorable microclimate, characterized by warm days and cool nights, which promotes optimal ripening and flavor development. The vineyards are planted on calcareous and clay-rich soils, contributing to the wine’s structure and minerality.

Vinification & Aging Methods

After manual harvesting, the selected grapes undergo a drying process (appassimento) for approximately three months to concentrate their sugars and flavors. Following gentle crushing and destemming, fermentation takes place in 4.0 ceramic amphorae, allowing for a slow and controlled process that preserves the wine’s aromatic profile. The wine is then aged for 12 months in amphorae, followed by an additional two months in French oak tonneaux. Subsequently, the wine rests in the bottle for about 60 months before release, ensuring optimal integration and complexity.

Tasting Notes

The 2015 Teste Dure Amphora Amarone presents a deep ruby hue with garnet reflections. On the nose, it offers an intricate bouquet of black plum, smoked tea, licorice, and baking spices. The palate is rich and mouthfilling, revealing layers of ripe cherry, blackberry compote, dried herbs, and cocoa dust. The wine’s texture oscillates between plush and firm, leading to a long, elegant finish marked by fine-grained tannins and a touch of sweetness.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Amarone pairs exceptionally well with rich, marbled red meats and traditional stews like beef cheek and braised game. It complements transalpine dishes such as scallops or venison carpaccio and harmonizes with oriental cuisine, including lacquered pork, duck, and grouper. The wine’s depth and complexity also make it a suitable companion for aged cheeses and hearty pasta dishes.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its complexity, decant the wine for at least 60 minutes before serving. Serve at a temperature of 16–18°C (60–64°F) in large, wide-bowled glasses to allow the aromas to unfold. This approach enhances the wine’s expressive qualities and ensures a balanced tasting experience.

Storage and Aging Potential

Stored under optimal conditions—cool, dark, and with consistent humidity—the 2015 Teste Dure Amphora Amarone has the potential to age gracefully for 10–15 years. Over time, it will develop additional complexity, with tertiary notes of leather, dried fruit, and earthy nuances emerging. Regular monitoring is advised to enjoy the wine at its peak maturity.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• Corvina: 60%

• Corvinone: 15%

• Rondinella: 10%

• Oseleta: 10%

• Croatina: 5%

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

17.0%

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 93/100

• Robert Parker: 92/100

• James Suckling: 92/100

• Falstaff: 93/100

• Decanter: 92/100