On a cold winter evening, with the alleys of Verona illuminated by festive lights and a veil of frost adorning the roofs, I had the pleasure of welcoming a group of friends from Eastern Europe. They had come to Italy to discover the wonders of Verona, and what better way to start their visit than with a glass of Amarone della Valpolicella?
Amarone, a symbolic wine of the Veneto region, is famous for its richness and its intense aromas of dried fruit and spices. Its production, which involves drying the grapes, gives the wine a unique complexity and depth. On the palate, it reveals itself with notes of cherries in alcohol, dried plums and a pinch of black pepper, creating a rich and enveloping taste experience.
For the occasion, I chose to pair Amarone with a dish that reflected its essence and enhanced its flavours: an Amarone risotto. The risotto, with its ruby color and the intense flavor given by the wine, was the ideal complement to the Amarone. The creaminess of the rice intertwined perfectly with the structure and tannins of the wine, creating a combination that delighted the palate and warmed the soul.
As the evening progressed, the winter cold was forgotten thanks to the warmth of hospitality and good food. My friends, fascinated by the history and culture of Venetian wine, appreciated every sip and every bite, learning to know and love this land through its flavors.
The warm and welcoming atmosphere, enriched by the beauty of Verona and the company of friends, made this experience not just a dinner, but a moment of sharing and cultural discovery.
For other combinations see the article:
Perfect pairing: Amarone della Valpolicella and braised meat in Barolo
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