2015 Monte dall'Ora 'Stropa' Amarone della Valpolicella

From the hill of Castelrotto, in the heart of the Valpolicella Classica, Stropa is Monte Dall’Ora’s most profound and time-shaped expression of Amarone. The name refers to the traditional willow shoots once used to tie the vines — a gesture preserved in the vineyard, where pergola-trained vines grow alongside tall trees such as mulberries, almonds, ash, and field maples; as well as on the bottle, where a small Stropa tie hugs the neck.

The wine is made from the traditional blend of Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, with smaller portions of Molinara, Croatina, and Dindarella, grown organically and biodynamically on Eocene limestone and calcarenite soils with south-east exposure. The best bunches are harvested by hand from mid-September and dried naturally for three months, before spontaneous fermentation in open vats with around 30 days of maceration and manual punch-downs. Ageing takes place for 4 years in 25 hl oak casks, followed by at least 36 months in bottle. 

In the glass, it shows an intense, mature red colour. The nose is deep and evolving, with notes of dried grape, dark cherry, plum, sweet spice, balsamic herbs, and subtle earthy complexity. On the palate, it is full, enveloping, and deeply persistent, with generous concentration, polished structure, and a long, slow finish that continues to unfold with air.

This is Amarone in a contemplative, traditional register — powerful, but not rushed; rich, but carried by time, vineyard character, and patient ageing.

Perfect with aged cheeses, braised meats, game, and complex slow-cooked dishes. Best opened with time and served without hurry.

Serve: 18 °C
Drink: 2026–2040