2004 Alzero

The stunning 2004 Cabernet Alzero is beautiful beyond words. What really stands out is the startling focus and definition of this elegant wine. Cabernet grapes are air-dried for added intensity and heft. This is unlike any other red wine made in Valpolicella. Its seamless elegance is infinite and so is its sheer might. It's a wine that soothes the senses but that also awakens and challenges them. The 2004 vintage is a brilliant expression with evident pedigree that requires hours of contemplation and respect. It's engineered to last. Drink 2015-2030. ||In the years leading up to "Bepi" Quintarelli's death in 2012 from Parkinson-s disease, there was a lot of confusion over who was managing affairs at the winery. Understandably, getting samples was difficult and visitor requests often went unanswered. Giuseppe Quintarelli had been sick for a long time and his survivors include four daughters and a slew of grandchildren. More than a year after his death, it seems a new chapter has commenced. The winery has a new United States importer (Kermit Lynch) and Quintarelli's heirs Francesco and Lorenzo (both grandsons) with Giampaolo (son-in-law) are communicative and excellent professionals. I hope the Quintarelli star will continue to rise. I have reviewed the 2003 Amarone Classico here. The 2004 will be released in early 2014. eRobertParker.com.October, 2013