Amarone: The Wine That Was Never Meant to Exist
A bold Italian red
Born in Valpolicella—discovered by “accident,” defined by patience, and famous for its illusion of sweetness.
There are wines that are crafted by design — and then there are wines discovered by accident. Amarone belongs to the second story.
Born in the hills of Valpolicella, just north of Verona in Italy’s Veneto region, Amarone is one of the world’s most powerful and intriguing red wines. Yet its origin was not a grand plan — it was an unexpected transformation.
Centuries ago, winemakers in Valpolicella produced a sweet wine called Recioto. The grapes were harvested and laid out to dry for months, concentrating sugars and flavors. Occasionally, a barrel would ferment longer than intended, converting all the sugar into alcohol.
What remained was not sweet at all.
It was dry. Structured. Intense.
At first, this was considered a mistake. Over time, it became a revelation.
What Makes Amarone Unique
Amarone is made using a traditional method called appassimento — a drying process where grapes rest on racks for 3–4 months before fermentation.
- Water evaporates
- Flavors concentrate
- Structure deepens
- Texture becomes richer
When fermentation is complete, the wine is dry — but remarkably smooth.
The name “Amarone” comes from the Italian word amaro, meaning “bitter.” Yet Amarone is not bitter in taste. The name refers to its serious structure and strength.
In fact, many guests are surprised by something else entirely: Amarone creates an illusion of sweetness. This impression comes from ripe dried cherry and dark fruit notes, warming alcohol, and a plush glycerol texture. There is no residual sugar — only depth.
The Landscape Behind the Wine
Amarone can only be produced in one place: Valpolicella DOCG. The region’s character shapes the wine:
- Cool alpine breezes preserve freshness
- Warm Mediterranean influence builds ripeness
- Limestone-rich soils provide structure and elegance
Rolling vineyards, stone villages, and centuries-old cellars define the terrain. Amarone is not just made — it is shaped by geography and time.
Amarone at the Table
Amarone is bold, but it is not overpowering. It pairs beautifully with:
- Braised short ribs
- Slow-roasted lamb
- Aged Parmigiano Reggiano
- Dark chocolate
Its structure makes it a contemplative wine — one to sip slowly, ideally over conversation.
Experience Amarone in Issaquah
At Amarone Ristorante & Bar, the wine is more than a name — it is a philosophy. We celebrate the patience, craftsmanship, and story behind Amarone through both our wine selection and our cuisine.
If you’ve never experienced Amarone before, this is the perfect place to begin. And if you already love it, you know: some of the greatest discoveries happen by accident.