Le Salette’s 2004 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Pergole Vece is totally seamless in the way it covers every inch of the palate. Dark cherries, plums, chocolate, spices and menthol are all woven together with impeccable class in this superb Amarone. The 2004 Pergole Vece will delight both the hedonistic and intellectual senses to the maximum. It is another superb example from this important Amarone vintage. The Pergole Vece is made from the estate’s oldest vines and spends three years in French oak barrels prior to being bottled. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2022. This is a gorgeous set of wines from Le Salette, capped off by a magnificent 2004 Amarone Pergole Vece. Importer: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200

A beautifully poised red from the start, with clean notes of currant, cardamom and oak. Medium- to full-bodied, with a balanced, silky texture, fresh fruit and a quietly persistent finish. A very dry style. Classy. Best after 2010. 550 cases made, 150 cases imported.??–JC??Region: Italy / Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Select to Add

You’ll notice a unique and terroir-driven note of freshly milled white peppercorn that distinguishes this Amarone. In the background are generous tones of berry, black mineral and toasted almond. Pair this extraordinary wine with roasted meat or aged cheese. ——M.L.(12/1/2008)—— 94