1 | Wine | Tuscany, $20 to $50, 2009

"The 2009 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano caresses the palate with dark plums, smoke, licorice and spices, all in a soft, seamless style that is ideal for drinking over the next few years. This is a lovely, beautifully balanced wine."

"The 2009 Chianti Classico Riserva boasts considerable richness in its powerful, dense fruit. Over the last few years the estate has eliminated new oak barrels, and what comes through most in the 2009 is a generous, pliant personality that is quite appealing. Super ripe red cherries burst from the expressive finish."

"The 2009 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano shows plenty of depth in its dark fruit, leather, anise, incense and tobacco. This is a fairly rich style of Vino Nobile, and while there are some rough edges, the 2009 will drink well if paired with similarly hearty dishes."

"The 2009 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano presents gorgeous balance and refinement from the very first taste. Firm tannins provide the backdrop as the 2009 Vino Nobile opens up in the glass. Sweet dark cherries, menthol and licorice are woven together nicely in this firm, harmonious Vino Nobile. This is a great showing from Caterina Dei."

"The 2009 Il Borgo flows across the palate with sweet dark red cherries, tobacco, flowers and spices. This intriguing blend of 70% Sangiovese and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon impresses for its silky personality and long finish. All the elements come together nicely in the glass. The 2009 is a harmonious, sleek wine to drink over the next 10-12 years."

"The 2009 Greppicante ratchets up the intensity of fruit in a round, seamless style laced with dark fruit, mocha, spices and French oak. Elements of slight over-ripeness come through on the finish."

"The 2009 Chianti Classico Riserva is stunningly beautiful. It boasts a great core of dark red fruit, licorice, spices, new leather and herbs. The 2009 impresses for its mid-palate density and sheer power. This is a great showing. The 2009 can be enjoyed today, but it is rather muscular, and is probably best suited for aging a few years. This is a terrific showing. A recent bottle of the 1995 was stunning in its beauty."

"This rich, full red's suave texture sets the stage for cherry, leather and underbrush flavors. The tannins match its rugged character, leaving a dusty, mouthcoating impression."