Tommaso Bussola Amarone della Valpolicella Classico
  'TB' 1997

Tommaso Bussola Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 'TB' 1997: Tommaso Bussola designates his wines as BG and TB, the latter being the finer. This wine has a lovely, dark colour, a dense and glossy hue, although not inky or black. It doesn't prepare you for the nose, which is dense, powerful and impressive. Aromas of blackberries and chocolate fill the room, and closer examination reveals notes of black pepper and pickling spices. The palate is luscious and sweetly textured, from entry right through to the finish. Despite it's full body, ripe, spicy tannins, power and grip it has delightful balance. There are piles of fruit, with notes of coffee grounds and more of those spices. It finished very well, with tremendous length. A wonderful melding of elegance and power. 18.5+/20 (26/5/03)