Bussola’s 2004 Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico Vigneto Alto TB is a stunning wine of profound dimensions. It reveals surreal detail in its well-delineated ripe dark fruit, licorice, smoke and tar. Though medium in body, this Amarone possesses awesome balance and polish. I found it awfully hard to put my glass down. It is extremely rare to encounter an Amarone that balances depth with clarity to this degree of profoundness. Needless to say, this wine is not to be missed. The Vigneto Alto spent 30 months in 500-liter French oak barrels, 100% new. It is one of the breathtaking Amarones I have ever tasted. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2019. 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

This well-structured Amarone displays aromas and flavors of sweet currant, mineral and vanilla. Full-bodied, with fine yet sturdy tannins, coated with lots of sweet fruit. A little off-dry. Takes on a bitter orange peel tinge on the finish. Best after 2009. 300 cases made, 150 cases imported.??–JC??Region: Italy / Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Select to Add