A compact red that shows lovely balance overall, layering grippy tannins and juicy acidity with a rich range of flavors, from sweet fig paste, soft raisin and sun-dried cherry fruit to savory accents of loamy earth, dark chocolate, smoke and Asian five-spice powder. Expressive. Drink now through 2029. 1,750 cases imported.??–AN??Region: Italy / Amarone della Valpolicella Select to Add

The 2007 Amarone della Valpolicella comes across as quite delicate and forward within the context of Amarone. Dark red fruit, tobacco and sweet herbs emerge from the glass, followed by expressive floral notes that add lift. The 2007 is uncomplicated but tasty, and should drink well for at least a few years. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2015. Santi is a bit of an uneven producer. Some, but not all, of the entry-level wines are correct, while at the top end I was pleased with the 2007 Amarone, but deeply disappointed by the 2006 Amarone Proemio, a wine whose balance is well off the mark. Importer: Frederick Wildman and Sons Ltd, New York, NY; tel. (212) 355-0700

Raisin, prune and fresh earth flavors play off of the tarry base in this moderate red, which has a firm tannic structure and a smoky finish. Drink now through 2014. 500 cases imported.??–AN??Region: Italy / Amarone della Valpolicella Select to Add

The 2006 Amarone della Valpolicella offers up juicy red cherries, licorice, leather, smoke and scorched earth. Although this remains a fairly classic, mid-weight style of Amarone, the balance of fruit and structural components is commendable. The finish is long and beautifully articulated, even if slight elements of austerity remain. Still, there is a poise and sense of centeredness I find quite intriguing. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2022. Importer: Frederick Wildman and Sons Ltd, New York, NY; tel. (212) 355-0700

The 2005 Amarone della Valpolicella is quite pretty and harmonious in its sweet roses, raspberries, spices and licorice. This is a fairly accessible, mid-weight style of Amarone that tends towards the more dry wine-like end of the spectrum, with moderate levels of concentration and complexity. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2015. Importer: Frederick Wildman and Sons Ltd, New York, NY; tel. (212) 355-0700