La Giaretta, Cor Di Vin 95 Rosso, 2016

Combining delicious rich fruit with silky tannins, the stunning Cor di Vin (or heart of wine) from La Giaretta has always been a club favourite.

Part of the charm comes from the appasimento technique (as used in Amarone), where the grapes are dried to increase concentration and flavour. 15 months aging process in small French oak barrels adds complexity, and the chosen oak is a very special selection of woods from the best French forests.

The Cor di Vin 2016 explodes from the glass with rich, intoxicating aromas of dark fruit - cherry, blackcurrant and plum rising to the fore - alongside classic Amarone notes of tobacco & cola. There is impressive concentration and depth on the palate, all brought together by a fine vein of acidity and pleasing to see alcohol at just 14%. Produced from grapes left to dry on the vine, this is an extraordinary bottle for fans of rich Italian reds. What a belter, and unbelievable value at £25.50 a bottle!
Head Wine Guru Tom