The 2003 Amarone Classico La Marega is a polished effort bursting with layers of cassis, blackberries, chocolate and violets. Ample and sweet on the palate, it reveals outstanding length and finessed tannins. Amarone is never inexpensive, but this wine delivers a lot of pleasure for the money. The Marega is 65% Corvina, 20% Rondinella and 15% Croatina, Dindarella and Sangiovese aged in a combination of large casks and smaller French oak barrels. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2013. Importer: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200

Raisiny fruit, with a decadent floral and spicy earth character. Full-bodied, with a balanced, easygoing mouthfeel, firming up slightly on the finish. Dense yet balanced. Best after 2009. 1,700 cases made, 400 cases imported.??–JC??Region: Italy / Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Select to Add

Le Salette, run by a cheerful husband-and-wife team, hits all the right marks. What makes this wine special is its vibrant, tonic personality backed by brilliant ruby coloring, bright cherry-apple aromas and a polished, streamlined finish, achieved by 10% Sangiovese. It’s a benchmark Amarone and one that grooves seamlessly with meat, risotto and cheese based pasta.——M.L.(10/1/2007)—— 93