IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

91 Points James Suckling
"A red with dried and juicy fruit. Medium to full body, round and velvety tannins and a flavorful finish." -- 11/21/2016

Brilliant ruby in color, Alanera delights the senses with a variety of aromas and flavors that include fresh and dried cherries and prunes, sweet spice, and hints of coffee and tobacco.  On the palate, Alanera is full-bodied with elegant and velvety tannins.  Vibrant acidity brings balance and freshness, and supports a long and harmonious finish.

Alanera translates as "black wing," a reference to the raven, "corvo" in Italian, and an homage to the Valpolicella region's treasured indigenous grape, "Corvina".  Alanera is a seductive wine that derives extra richness from an innovative variation on the traditional appassimento method practiced throughout the zone.  50% of all the grapes harvested to produce this wine are partially dried for 45-60 days.  The classic Valpolicella varietals are dried in the main drying facility in Sant' Ambrogio where the Zenato family dry their Amarone grapes, while the Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are dried at Zenato's Santa Cristina winery. The highly concentrated juice from these partially dried grapes adds an unusually complex spectrum of aromas and flavors to the blend.  12 months in barrel round out the tannin structure in this eminently drinkable red.

Pair Zenato's Alanera with medium-aged cheeses, cured meats, meaty fish such as sea bass fillet with Extra Virgin Olive Oil, or with braised meats and stews.