Since the first Italian quality assurance label denominazione di origine controllata e garantita was named in 1980, 20 more have received the blessing. Before 2009, when Amarone was asked to join this elite club, Asti Spumante and other questionably deserving wines were already in. Amarone della Valpolicella and its sweeter sidekick, Recioto della Valpolicella, have long been among the very top wines made in Italy. So, finally, viva Amarone! Read More