Giuseppe Quintarelli is widely regarded as the legendary producer of Valpolicella and Amarone. Founded in the 1920s in Negrar, the estate achieved iconic status under Giuseppe "Bepi" Quintarelli, whose meticulous attention to detail, traditional methods and exceptionally long ageing regimes earned him the nickname "The Master of the Veneto." Since his passing in 2012, the winery has remained family-owned, with his daughter Fiorenza and grandson Francesco continuing his uncompromising philosophy. Production remains extremely limited, and every label is handwritten in the estate's distinctive style.

The 2016 Valpolicella Classico Superiore is one of the estate's most celebrated recent releases. In a highly unusual decision, Quintarelli chose not to produce Amarone from the outstanding 2016 vintage, believing the wine did not match the precise house style required for Amarone. Instead, fruit normally destined for Amarone was incorporated into the Valpolicella Classico Superiore and Rosso del Bepi, significantly increasing their depth, concentration and ageing potential. The wine was matured for approximately 60 months in large Slavonian oak casks before bottling, following the estate's traditional long-élevage approach.

The 2016 is a remarkably complete expression of Quintarelli's style. The nose is intensely aromatic, offering black cherry, blackberry, dried rose petals, orange zest, incense, graphite, liquorice and sweet spices. The palate is vibrant yet powerful, combining juicy dark berry fruit with mineral tension, refined tannins and lively acidity. Hints of cocoa, balsamic herbs and tobacco emerge with aeration, leading to a long, savoury finish. Thanks to the inclusion of Amarone-designated fruit, the wine possesses unusual richness while retaining the freshness and elegance expected of a classic Valpolicella.

" Described as wild and exotic, with citrus spice, graphite, crushed blackberries and incense. The palate is juicy, mineral-driven and beautifully balanced, finishing with refined tannins and remarkable freshness. Guido noted that the inclusion of fruit originally intended for Amarone "propelled this beauty to the next level." -- Vinous