Corte Giara’s 2010 Soave is a round, expressive wine that is given a little extra richness from the presence of 20% Chardonnay in the blend. The Soave has made important strides over the last few years. The 2010 is a gorgeous wine for the money. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2014. Corte Giara is the Allegrini’s entry-level range. The wines have improved considerably over the last few years now that the Allegrini family has direct control over all of their vineyard sources. The only wine in the range that is disappointing this year is the 2008 Valpolicella Ripasso. A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620

The 2009 Soave opens with pretty aromatics that meld into soft, supple fruit. Floral, minty notes add lift on the finish. The Soave is particularly successful in this vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2012. The Allegrini family has begun moving their entry-level Corte Giara line from a negociant winery to greater reliance on estate-grown fruit. A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620