Tenuta Sant'Antonio Amarone Antonio Castagnedi 2019

94 Points Vinous The 2019 Amarone della Valpolicella Antonio Castagnedi is darkly alluring, with a seductive blend of black cherries and crushed violet candies giving way to a dusting of cocoa. This is silky smooth, nearly creamy yet lifted in feel, with ripe red fruits contrasted by a tinge of bitter balsamic spice. This tapers off with youthful tension, leaving a coating of grippy tannins that are nicely offset by a bump of residual acidity. There’s lovely balance within the 2019 that makes this an excellent option for the dinner table but will also promote aging. It clocks in at just 15% alcohol as well. Gorgeous.

93 Points James Suckling Very tight on the nose, so give it a good swirl to bring out the bright red fruit, such as raspberries and red cherries, which are more immediately evident on the palate. Full and structured, with a youthful feel provided by the backbone of fresh tannin that is rather chewy but still allows the fresh fruit to flow. Drinkable even now at the dining table, but this is built to last and will enjoy a few years in the cellar.

91 Points Wine Enthusiast Dried cherry, dried cranberry, star anise, clove and a hint of pepper open the nose of this well-crafted Amarone. Soft and plush on the palate, highlighting dried cherry and loads of baking spices, the wine begins to reveal turned earth, bitter chocolate and floral notes as it opens. It's really well-structured, with elegant tannins and the needed acidity to keep the wine in balance.