Corte Giara’s 2006 Valpolicella Ripasso is made in the traditional ripasso style. After the alcoholic fermentation is completed in the fall, the wine is allowed to rest for a few months before it is fermented again, this time on the lees of the winery’s Amarone, which gives the wine greater depth of color, and above all else, concentration of the aromas and flavors. Hints of new leather, spices and toasted coffee beans emerge from the glass, adding complexity to the wine’s attractive super-ripe dark fruit. Drink this tasty red over the next few years. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2010.Corte Giara is the negociant label of the Allegrini family, one of Veneto’s best-known estates.A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620

Mature, balanced nose with good Ripasso character. Balanced plum and oak with attractive clove notes. Pretty length.