1 | Wine | Montepulciano, 86 or higher

"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."

"Bright red. Perfumed aromas of red berries and violet, complicated by cinnamon and almond flower. Juicy and bright on the palate, with precise strawberry and redcurrant flavors lifted by lively acidity. Finishes long and fresh, with ripe tannins and lingering floral perfume. Not the last word in complexity or concentration, but an absolutely delicious wine, one of the best Rossos by Avignonesi in some time."

"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."

"Deep red. Bright sangiovese aromas and flavors of sour red cherry, redcurrant and sweet spices. Fresh, clean and persistent; not the last word in complexity but very smooth and attractive wine."

"This fresh, focused red exudes black currant and black cherry flavors, with touches of licorice, tobacco and spice. Beautifully balanced, leading to a long, licorice-tinged aftertaste."

"The 2009 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano wraps around the palate with succulent dark cherries, mint, tobacco, licorice and new leather. The 2009 boasts gorgeous inner perfume and luscious fruit, all supported by firm yet beautifully integrated tannins."

"Lively and fruity, with dried berry, black cherry and spices on the nose and palate. Medium-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and a long finish."

"The 2008 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano shows lovely intensity in its dark fruit, grilled herbs, licorice and earthiness. This, too, is another feminine, graceful wine with gorgeous length and a polished, harmonious personality."