Here’s a meaty, savory wine with loads of ripe fruit, plum and prune followed by moist earth and smoked ham. The wine has polished, almost squeaky tannins and a rich mouthfeel.
— M.L.
(2/1/2011)
Tasted now, almost one decade after the harvest, this red blend from northern Italy is characterized by aromas of dried cassis, sweet cherry, cured beef, crushed stone and dark spice. There’s a warm, earthy quality that is backed by fine-grain tannins.
— M.L.
(5/1/2011)
Monte Gradela is an extremely ripe and fruity Amarone with dark concentration and jammy aromas of blackberry, strawberry and raspberry marmalade. The full force of the fruit plus the power of its alcohol help offset some of those overripe elements.
— M.L.
(12/1/2009)
This Ripasso speaks of Valpolicella tradition with aromas of exotic spice, warm fruit, blackberry preserves, ash and smoked bacon. This is a fleshy dense wine with a bright, zesty finish and medium-long persistency. —M.L.
— M.L.
(10/1/2009)
There’s a touch of juicy sweetness here that recalls ripe blackberry or strawberry tart. You’ll also recognize tones of spice, leather and tobacco that make for balanced background flavors.
— M.L.
(5/1/2011)
Here’s a pretty, vibrant Ripasso with a concentrated appearance and pristine aroma of chocolate, red cherry, Indian spice, cola and cigar box. The wine offers a lush, full mouthfeel with a playful touch of sweetness on the close.
— M.L.
(10/1/2009)
Rich and steady, with loads of ripe fruit, exotic spice, leather, chocolate and smokey barbecue sauce. This wine does a very nice job of balancing its sweet cherry flavors against warm, oak-driven aromas.
— M.L.
(2/1/2011)
This wine starts off nicely with a velvety feel and smooth consistency. But as it opens more in the glass, it also offers a touch of natural rubber or Band Aid that may worsen with time: Drink now.
— M.L.
(12/1/2009)