Age Matters

I always look forward to our monthly wine club tastings. Our February tasting, held last night, was especially noteworthy. The varietal theme was Amarone. Each member of the group brings what they feel to be a great bottle, representative of the varietal theme. I was quite happy to bring a '97 Ca' de Rocchi La Bastia. Others brought great bottles from the 2000, 2005 vintages. Much to everyone's great surprise the following wines were presented: '62 Bertani,'78 Villa Spada, '85 Remo Farina, '90 Acinum. Needless to say, I was quite anxious to try these "old timers." The 48 year old, 1962 Bertani was fantastic. Still showing vibrant red fruit, with fully integrated fine tannins, with almond on the balanced finish. I marveled at how good this wine was, considering it's age. The '78, '85 and '90 continued to amaze the group. The newer vintages, were very different in style. They were dark, full flavored and delicious.....but the undisputed winners were the "Vintage group." With age comes wisdom, and in the case of great Italian Amarone...a fabulous experience.