The 2006 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Terre di San Zeno is a very special wine with a distinctive bouquet that stands apart within the greater Amarone context. Aromas include balsam herb, dried rosemary, eucalyptus and black olive. The fruit component comes through nicely with dried cherry and prune. Twists of smoke and spice are woven with its smooth texture and soft tannins. Drink 2014-2025. Corteforte is a beautiful castle built in the 1400s with crenulated watchtowers that soar above Pergola-trained vines. It’s a tiny, boutique estate run by Carlo Maria Cerutti who farms a mere three hectares of vine. As they say, “good things come in small packages,” and Corteforte has delivered quite a few gems this year. Importer: The Wine Company, www.thewinecompany.net