From the Mazzano vineyard in Negrar, the Masi 2012 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Mazzano shows more ripeness, volume and roundness compared to its sibling from Campolongo di Torbe. It feels like this wine also has a bit more sweetness, and this adds lots of life and brightness to its underlying aromas of black cherry confit and blackberry preserves. Mazzano also shows a distinctly savory spice with old spice, cured tobacco and a hint of smoked bresaola or bacon. Perhaps Mazzano is horizontal where Campolongo di Torbe is vertical, this wine is wide and broad, whereas the other is linear and deep. These are two different expressions that show beautifully a decade after the grapes were harvested. The blend is 75% Corvina, 20% Rondinella and 5% Molinara. Production is 15,350 bottles.

A dusting of exotic spices, crushed stone, dried roses and tobacco wafts up from the darkly alluring 2012 Amarone Classico Mazzano. This is surprisingly lifted and finessed yet undeniably savory with a bitter herbal twang, as tart red and black fruits cascade across a salty mineral core. This tapers off long, staining and structured with a saturation of primary concentration and balsamic tones that linger-through it all, the mouth waters. I love the contrasts of savory and sweet here. Only 1.1 grams of residual sugar. Amazing.

A polished red, this is rich and medium- to full-bodied yet fresh and harmonious throughout. A finely meshed range of macerated black cherry, medicinal herb, loamy earth and minerally iron notes slowly expand on the palate, framed by dense, integrated tannins. The finish is savory, with lasting hints of olive, espresso and spice. Best from 2025 through 2035. 1,250 cases made, 75 cases imported.

Tobacco, prune and blue flower aromas mingle with a whiff of spice and sunbaked earth. Full-bodied and enveloping, the palate features raisin, licorice and baking spice before finishing on a note of bitter almond. Supple tannins offer polished support. Drink through 2027.