Valpolicella Ripasso 2005, Teroldego Rotaliano Riserva 2004 and Falerno del Massico Camarato 2001
Valpolicella Ripasso 2005, Santa Sofia, 13.5%, €203 for 12 bottlesBasic Valpolicella can be forgettable, but Ripasso - for which it is passed through pressed Amarone and Recioto grapes, to add richness - is another matter. Sweet cherry, plums, gorgeous ripe fruit flavours and a rich, mellow mouthfeel make this exceptional. www.select.ie.
Teroldego Rotaliano Riserva 2004, Mezzacorona, Trentino, 13%, €11.99Teroldego is indigenous to Trentino, in northeast Italy, where it produces what is considered the region's finest red varietal. Riservas are made only in the best vintages. This is a smart, clean, blackberry fresh, vanilla-laced example with plenty of grip and character. O'Briens.
Falerno del Massico Camarato 2001, Villa Matilde, Campania, €26This powerful wine has a nose of sour cherry with a hint of sulphur. Rich cherry and plum flavours in the mouth, streaks of chocolate with a pepperish lick, and soft tannins. Built for big meaty dishes. From www.ferrara.ie or the company's weekend stall in Blackrock Market, Co Dublin.