Bussola’s 2004 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico TB possesses remarkable harmony and poise. At first the wine is rather brooding, but with air it turns more delicate, revealing layers of tar, licorice, smoke, toasted oak and black fruits. The wine offers notable clarity and finessed tannins that frame the fruit from start to finish. Although the new oak needs some bottle age to recede a bit, this is clearly a remarkable example of modern-style Amarone at its finest. Bussola gave this bottling 30 months in 500-liter American oak tonneaux, 100% new. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2016. This is another superb set of wines from Tommaso Bussola. The highlights are the 2004 Amarones, which are phenomenal. Sadly, prices have become just as breathtaking as the wines themselves. Still, these are among the most unique wines being made anywhere. Bussola has delayed the release of his 2003 Amarones, as he feels they need more time. Importer: The Rare Wine Co., Sonoma, CA; tel. (707) 996-4484

Shows aromas of sweet currant and raisin, with hints of mineral, flowers and cedar. Full-bodied, with a dense core of sweet fruit and mineral, fine, firm tannins and a long, evolving finish that's slightly sugary. This is full of youthful energy. Should come together in time. Best after 2010. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 800 cases made, 300 cases imported.??–JC??Region: Italy / Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Select to Add