2003 Tommaso Bussola Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Vigneto Alto TB
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Tasting notes
The 2003 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Vigneto Alto TB is an explosive wine that shows an impressive level of territorial and varietal tipicity. There is a spot of volatility that is in line with grapes that see the appassimento drying process. You can't really describe this as a traditional expression of Amarone, nor is it a modern rendition. The wine's thick extraction, deep aromatic layering and wide scale intensity put it somewhere in the middle on this continuum. Sweet plum, tobacco and baking spice wrap thickly over the palate. It is extra rich and warm with 16.5% alcohol. No matter what, it is built to last.
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Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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I remember tasting the 2003 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico TB Vigneto Alto when it was in barrel and the fermentations were very slow. Today, it is has emerged from that awkward state and developed into a very beautiful Amarone. Dried dark cherry notes meld into cloves, pipe tobacco and worn-in leather in a striking, beautifully delineated Amarone loaded with complexity. The flavors are a touch developed, making the 2003 an excellent choice for drinking now and over the next decade or so. The 2003 doesn't quite reach the level of the very best years - which would have been nearly impossible in this vintage - but it comes very close. There is a lot to like here, especially for readers looking for a near-term fix of Amarone.