2003 Bertani Amarone della Valpolicella Classico

The 2003 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico is a big, enveloping wine loaded with wild cherries, licorice, new leather and dried flowers, not to mention considerable personality. The tannins are just a touch rough around the edges, and I am not sure they will ever soften given the heat of the vintage, but the 2003 should continue to drink well for at least a handful of years. Ideally the wine is best paired with fairly hearty dishes.