Marion Amarone della Valpolicella 2018

“The 2018 Amarone della Valpolicella is smoky and darkly alluring, with masses of crushed stone and savory herbs giving way to dried black cherry. This is an especially lifted and juicy red from Marion. Depths of tart wild berry fruit and spiced citrus tones excited by vibrant acidity. It finishes potent and lightly structured, nearly buzzing with residual tension, as hints of hard red candy and dark, dark chocolate linger for what seems to be a full minute. Drinking window: 2024-2032. 94 points

The Marion winery and vineyards are located in Marcellise, outside the Classico zone, on the hills east of Verona. This year’s releases include a new set of wines that Stefano Campedelli made from a vineyard across the valley from the winery with distinctly white calcareous soils. The wines are labeled Corte Lavel, and are done in a more immediate style. That said, the Amarone is impressive, with years of positive development in store for collectors. At Marion, the 2018 Teroldego is a highlight. Many 2018s in Valpolicella come across as fragile and almost diluted in feel, yet that is not the case here. The 2018 Amarone is also notable, yet more in the context of the vintage.”

Eric Guido, Vinous (03/23)