The 2007 Amarone della Valpolicella is a big, dramatic wine bursting with dark red fruit, flowers, sweet spices, smoke, new leather and licorice. This is a bit monolithic today, but I sense tons of potential. From time to time the wine’s inner sweetness and perfume emerges, suggesting what the future holds. This isn’t the most subtle Amarone readers will come across, but it should offer plenty of pleasure for those who appreciate the bold, up-front style. The round, sensual finish invites a second taste. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2024. I generally think of Pra more for their superb Soaves, but these two reds are equally captivating as the best of the estate’s whites.Importer: Vinifera Imports, Ronkonkoma, NY; tel. (631) 467-5907

This packs a lot into an elegant package, featuring layers of juicy black currant, prune, lots of spice-anise, black pepper and clove-and the sweet stemminess of burning vine clippings joined by hints of espresso and kirsch. These flavors fall effortlessly in a silky sheath over the supple tannins, which show on the firmer finish. Drink now through 2027. 500 cases made, 200 cases imported.??–AN??Region: Italy / Amarone della Valpolicella Select to Add