ALLEGRINI PALAZZO DELLA TORRE 2006

After a long hiatus, our stores have finally welcomed back to our shelves the amazing Italian wines of Leonardo Locascio and Winebow, and most importantly, one of my all-time favorite values from Italy, the Allegrini Palazzo della Torre 2006. From the Veneto region of Italy, this something of a "Super-Venetian" red is a blend of Corvina Veronese, Rondinella and Sangiovese, which makes it an amped-up Valpolicella blend, more-or-less.

Possessing hints of smoky dark fruits, with hints of tobacco, spice and raisin characteristics, this plush, full-bodied red has the right amount of power and acidity to fare beautifully with roasted meats - or maybe a little Osso Bucco, perhaps? - and is ideal for this time of year.

Fermented in stainless steel tanks, the fruit is on full-display, with 15 months in French barrique and 7 months in bottle to give it added depth and complexity. There is a lot of wine to behold for just under $20, and many have come to call this Allegrini's "baby Amarone" for good reason - it's deep, dark, rich and delicious. Give it a go!