The 2009 Amarone della Valpolicella shows similar elegance that compares to 2006, one of my favorite editions of this beautiful wine. This is indeed an impressive effort with loads of Amarone intensity that is expertly offset by balanced acidity and integrated residual sugar. There’s a touch of sweetness, but it’s not out of place. The wine’s broad mouthfeel is supported by tones of dark chocolate, spice, molasses and sun-dried dates. There’s a firm edge to the tannic backbone that suggests it needs another few years of cellar aging. Drink 2015-2025. Corte Sant’Alda is a flagship estate that makes some of the most opulent and age-worthy wines in Valpolicella. Marinella Camerani and her family farm according to biodynamic principles (they are Demeter-certified), and she likes to remind her visitors that olive and cherry groves are also a big part of the estate identity. Hers is a sustainable azienda agricola (“farming estate”), not just a vineyard, with a 360-degree perspective on all themes related to the land. The distinctive personality of the wines, and the consistent high quality make Corte Sant’Alda an important addition to anyone who collects fine Amarone. Importer: Domaine Select Wine Estates, www.domaineselect.com