Pieropan’s 2008 Soave Classico La Rocca emerges with hints of ash, spices, dried apricots and flowers, all of which are woven in a rich, textured fabric of inimitable class. A clean vein of minerality runs through the wine, adding a sense of balance and proportion. The rich, creamy finish rounds things out quite nicely. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2018. Pieropan remains a leading figure in Soave. The estate’s newest venture into Amarone remains a work in progress. Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900