Dal Forno makes some of the best Amarone. Unfortunately, the price is prohibitive. That said, his Valpolicella's are better than most Amarone and while expensive, they can be worth doing. This one certainly was. So much better than a bottle tasted five years ago that was tight, oaked and unforgiving. This bottle has really started to show a glimpse of its best. Purple in color, mostly opaque and bright. The nose has black cherries, black raspberries, slight vanilla, cloves and leather. Full bodied. On the palate, this has up front black cherry fruit with underlying spice and dried floral notes. With air, an earthy leather quality comes out. A seductive texture that makes it hard not to drink quickly. Great balance. Long finish. This is still showing young and probably another decade until peak with another twenty after that. It has a nice backbone of acidity that makes it very food friendly. Pasta with a bolognaise sauce would be a good match.
