The 2008 Amarone della Valpolicella is terrific. Plums, dark cherries, licorice, incense and crushed rocks are some of the notes that emerge from this beautifully nuanced, delineated Amarone. The 2008 is made in a fresh, vibrant style that is very appealing. Clean mineral notes reappear to frame the vibrant, expressive finish. This is another strong showing from Corte Giara. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2017. Corte Giara is the Allegrini’s entry-level range. The wines have improved considerably over the last few years now that the Allegrini family has direct control over all of their vineyard sources. The only wine in the range that is disappointing this year is the 2008 Valpolicella Ripasso. A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620