The 2007 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico reveals terrific integrity and fine overall balance. Floral notes lead to dark berries, leather, licorice and spices in this round, sensual Amarone. The Classico is the estate's entry-level Amarone and as such it is pretty approachable, even at this young stage. The estate gives the Classico three years in cask. I loved it. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2022. Readers will find much to admire in this set of new releases from Le Salette. This is an impressive showing from the Scamperle family. Importer: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200

The 2007 Valpolicella is everything a great Valpolicella should be. Sweet, engaging aromatics lead to a soft-textured core of ripe red fruits. This caressing wine offers terrific balance and harmony at this level. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2010.Le Salette, based in Fumane, makes delicious wines that are also priced very fairly.Importer: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200

Aromatic hints of cedar, cured tobacco and ground spices accent pure black cherry, damson plum, wild strawberry and violet notes. Tightly knit but balanced, with polished tannins and juicy acidity. Drink now through 2020. 250 cases imported.??–AN??Region: Italy / Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Select to Add

A simple red, with berry and mineral character. Light and fresh. Drink now. 5,000 cases made. -JC

Rounding off a killer trio from the 2007 vintage, Le Salette’s base Amarone shows impeccably high standards and aspirations. You’ll love the density and richness here, as well as those compelling tones of cherry, moist earth and black licorice. ——M.L.(12/1/2011)—— 91