Sartori, Amarone della Valpolicella Classico (Veneto, Italy) Corte Brà 2008

($55, Banfi): This is a beautifully balanced young Amarone showing the potential of this great DOCG.  Not particularly tannic, but youthful because of its tightly wound structure, a hint of its grandeur still peeks out.  This is a serious Amarone with an enticing bitterness in the finish.  Powerful, yes, but with elegance befitting a grand wine.  If you plan on drinking it now, open it hours in advance, decant it, and serve it with robust pasta or lamb shanks.
93 Michael Apstein Feb 10, 2015