2016 Monte Faustino Amarone della Valpolicella Classico

(92 points) Savory wafts of tar, cured tobacco and leather wind through flavors of dehydrated cherry, plum sauce, red licorice and paprika in this refreshing red. Structured by well-meshed, chalky tannins, showing a satiny texture, good integration and length. A bit compact today but opens nicely in the glass, suggesting good cellar potential. Best from 2028 through 2040. 300 cases made, 175 cases imported.  Alison Napjus, Wine Spectator (Feb 2026)