TN: 1993 Dal Forno Valpolicella

WINE TALK
1

Ciao Berserkers,

1993 Romano Dal Forno, Valpolicella Superiore, $32 back in the day. Blend of Corvina, Rondinella, Molinara.

Excellent quality cork, long, and had a nice “pop” when removed. Decanted and a medium amount of sediment removed, although there were some small crusty sheets still lining the inside.

Color is brick with some oranging at the rim, mature but healthy. A gorgeous nose of smoky amarena cherry, spice, earth, some orange. Very different from when it was young, more secondary elements, much less primary fruit, more “laid back” as it were. No sign of oak. Delicious on the palate with a wonderful structure, lean, good acidity, very light tannin, long finish. Held up very well for it’s age and was quite satisfying. Made from “lightly withered” grapes, drinks more like an Amarone than a traditional Val. Had it with some chicken lasagna I whipped up. Grade: easy A.

dc.

2

Dal Forno Valpolicella’s are quite a step up from most all others, even above Quintarelli IMO. Too bad prices are north of $150 for recent releases. The Valpolicella-Amarone spread in cost makes it easier to buy the latter these days… [cheers.gif]

3

Had one of these last month and enjoyed it very much. Don’t have detailed notes but it is as you describe - more secondary flavors and less youthful fruit. Good stuff!