The 2004 Alzero is incredibly finessed from the very first taste. What a wine. Mocha, white truffles, black cherries, bittersweet chocolate, plums, spices, licorice and melted road tar all wrap around the palate in a super-refined, polished wine of the high level. The 2004 isn't a huge Alzero, instead it relies on silkiness, and a sense of total elegance. This heady, exotic, total turn-on of a wine should offer a wide drinking window of pure pleasure. Since 1997, Quintarelli has moved to make Alzero in a bit less opulent style than some previous editions, which I admit I have mixed feelings about. I have no reservations about the 2004, though. It is magnificent.

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. ML