The 2009 Valpolicella Classico Superiore is another striking wine for the money. Dark, sensual and inviting, the Valpolicella impresses for its juiciness and fabulous overall balance. Floral notes add lift and refinement and lift on the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2016. Zenato is one of the historic names in Valpolicella. The estate makes a wide range of wines, but truly excels with Amarone. A recent vertical tasting of Zenato’s Amarone Riserva Sergio Zenato going back to 1980 was eye-opening for many reasons, not the least of which was seeing just how well the wines age. Readers will find notes from that tasting on www.erobertparker.com A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620

The 2008 Valpolicella Classico Superiore is a beautiful wine that bursts from the glass with exuberant dark fruit, cloves and chocolate. This shows none of the hard edges, herbaceousness or dilution that is typical of so many Valpolicellas in this price range. A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620

The estate’s 2007 Valpolicella Classico Superiore is a joyous red bursting with perfumed red fruit and sweet spices. This fresh, vibrant Valpolicella is best enjoyed on the young side. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2011. This is a compelling set of value-priced wines from Zenato, one of Veneto’s leading properties. A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620