Founded in 1772, and now guided by the seventh generation of the Boscaini family, Masi has spent nearly 250 years shaping the voice of Amarone—rooted in heritage, guided by innovation, and always deeply connected to the land. Their flagship Costasera Amarone is grown on hillside vineyards spanning the historic communes of Marano, Negrar, Sant’Ambrogio, and San Pietro in Cariano—the very cradle of the Valpolicella Classico zone, where many of the region’s finest Amarone wines are produced each year. These west and southwest-facing slopes soak up the final warmth of the day, while Lake Garda’s cooling breezes preserve the wine’s natural lift and finesse—a hallmark of Classico Amarone, which tends to show more vibrancy and freshness compared to its warmer eastern counterparts. The soils here contain red limestone and cretaceous marl, rich in calcium carbonate, which add a mineral tension and elegance that complements the naturally rich dried fruit character found in many Amarone wines. From these noble slopes, Masi cultivates Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara, grapes that are slowly dried after harvest using the traditional appassimento method. The result is a wine style that balances intensity with elegance, approachable in its youth, yet structured for cellaring. I recently tasted the 2020 vintage of Costasera, now widely available at LCBO stores across Ontario, just in time for the holidays, when Amarone becomes one of the season’s most sought-after wines for both gifting and fireside enjoyment. In the glass, it’s deep, dense, and inviting, with expressive aromas of dark cherry, wild berries, and dried plum, layered with dark chocolate, balsamic herbs, graphite, and a subtle earthiness that nods to its hillside origins. The palate delivers a full-bodied, plush mouthfeel, lifted by bright acidity and fine, integrated tannins. Flavours of dried fruit, cocoa-dusted raisins, and gentle warm spice carry through a long, mouthwatering finish. While it’s drinking beautifully now, this wine will evolve gracefully over the next 10 to 15 years. It’s approachable, classically styled, and offers excellent value, making it a great introduction to Amarone for those just discovering the style, and a solid, reliable bottle for seasoned enthusiasts alike. Tasted November 2025. 93 points. Matt Steeves - http://www.quercusvino.ca