The 2000 Alzero wafts from the glass with an intriguing melange of white and black truffles, roasted coffee beans, wild herbs, blackberries and new saddle leather. This intriguing, beguiling wine captures the essence of the 2000 vintage at Quintarelli. Layers of radiant, perfumed fruit flow effortlessly to the round, polished finish. The 2000 Alzero is another brilliant wine from Quintarelli. Alzero is predominantly Cabernet Franc, made Amarone-style, in which the fruit is dried for several months prior to vinification and subsequent aging in medium-size casks. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2022. Giuseppe Quintarelli remains one of the icons of Italy. The wines are released only when Quintarelli deems them to be ready, not a moment sooner. These two fine bottles will thrill Quintarelli fans, of which I am one. They more than live up to the estate’s vaunted reputation. Importer: Robert Chadderdon Selections, New York, NY; tel. (212) 332-4999