Unfolding in a way that captures the attention and imagination at once, this Veneto classic is a wine lover's must. Opening with aromas of blackberry jam, plum preserves, anise, clove and espresso, it might overwhelm at first but give it a second. The palate is rich and layered with flavors that deserve some time to develop. Black cherries, tobacco, vanilla and spice all swirl on the palate into an elegant and refined finish. *Cellar Selection* (JP)

The wet 2018 vintage has conferred this Valpolicella Superiore – a blend of 60% Corvina, 15% Croatina, 10% Corvinone, 10% Oseleta and 5% Rondinella – with an accessible and fragrant character compared to its more typical firmly shut down youth. Intense scents of potpourri, iris, crushed violet, fresh blueberries, herbs and a hint of black tea lead to a cocoa-dusted palate of succulent and ferrous red fruits, balanced by good acidity and with that beautiful fragrance wafting through. While still ageworthy, you could enjoy this sooner than other recent vintages, such as the magnificent 2016 tasted alongside it. (JB)

A gorgeous nose of rosemary, leather, cocoa powder and milled pepper is a fragrant thread winding through this rich red. Dense, fine-grained tannins support flavors of baked black cherry and blackberry paste, loamy earth, graphite and Earl Grey tea leaf. Long and plush, with the detailed profile echoing on the finish. Corvina, Rondinella, Croatina and Oseleta. (AN)