The 2017 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Castel lifts from the glass with peppery herbal and floral tones before giving way to crushed blackberries. It's round and pliant with juicy acidity that motivates the ultra-ripe red and black fruits within. The slightest hint of heat comes through in the finish (17% abv) as confectionary spices resonate under an air of inner violet florals. This is a good effort, yet the 2017 could use more freshness on the nose to take it to the next level.
