1999 Giuseppe Quintarelli Valpolicella Classico Superiore

The 1999 Valpolicella, a medium ruby, presents Nebbiolo-like aromas of crushed flower, spices and sweet red fruits. In the glass, herb, licorice, tobacco earthiness and oak nuances also make in appearance. This is a classically structured, idiosyncratic wine that will finds its greatest admirers among those who can overlook its flaws , which included a level of volatile acidity that is high, even within the context of this producer’s wines. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2011. One of my regrets is not having spent time with Giuseppe Quintarelli when he was in his prime. His 1983 Recioto remains one of the greatest wines I have ever tasted. Today the estate is run by Quintarelli’s numerous children and grandchildren. It’s not too hard to observe what can only be called a lack of direction, not to mention a cavalier attitude that is a clear sign of an estate that finds it easier to coast on its reputation rather than continue to strive towards excellence. While many of the current releases are outstanding, the future appears much less certain. However, the best wines are phenomenal and are likely to remain objects of desire among the world’s most well-heeled collectors. Pricing is astronomical even at the cellar door, where virtually all of the wines in this article were purchased. Importer: Robert Chadderdon Selections, New York, NY; tel. (212) 332-4999