The amazing 1998 Valpolicella boasts a saturated ruby/purple color in addition to a beautiful perfume of creosote, plums, prunes, blackberries, and currants with a hint of mineral in the background. It offers astonishing concentration, immense body, fine balance, purity, a stunning flavor profile, and a 50-60-second finish. Drink it over the next 7-10 years.

Shows aromas of leather, smoked ham, prune, tarry mineral and dried flowers. An amazing panoply for a 2002, which was a weak vintage. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, intense, peppery finish. Given the difficulties of the vintage, this is a fine effort by Dal Forno. Drink now through 2016.