1 | Wine | Page 276

"This wine opens with effusive floral and spice aromas characteristic of the 2011 vintage. Present are the lifted perfumes of hyacinth, linden blossom and carnation along with spicy Satsuma mandarin, tea tree, fennel and crushed boysenberry. The palate is expansive, expressive and also connective; showing a completeness and comfort within its own skin. On the palate there are notes of passion fruit, violet pastille and tayberry, along with hints of cinnamon stick and a flinty minerality bundled in a succulent, mouthwatering middle. The tannins are matte with a velveteen quality and the finish is all freshness, lingering and clean."

"The 2011 Malbec has a simple nose of soy-tinged black fruit that has absorbed the American and French oak well. The palate is medium-bodied with touches of burnt toast and rosemary on the entry, coca-tinged tannins and a pleasing, smooth, harmonious finish."

"Bright purple. Straightforward black and blue fruit aromas and flavors show good energy. Fleshy and smooth in texture, with good finishing punch and a touch of bitter chocolate. This one has no shortage of fruit."

"The 2007 Barolo Margheria was raised in cask and reveals a slightly more classic side of Nebbiolo. Sweet floral herbs, tobacco, geranium and wild flowers emerge from the bouquet. The firm yet well-integrated tannins frame a core of fruit loaded with Serralunga character, leading to a wiry, muscular finish. Hints of leather, licorice and iron linger in the glass. The Margheria is less immediate than the Bricco Fiasco at this stage, and it will require more patience, but it is every bit as compelling."

"Deep, intense black fruit, bright acidity and long gorgeous flavors are a hallmark of this long growing season and a reason to celebrate the intense effort and sacrifice it took to get there.The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic. Made to accompany that herb-crusted standing rib roast, it surely will not disappoint. Throw a few bottles in the cellar…they will almost certainly reward the effort over the next 20–30 years."

"A sleeper of the vintage. ...this impressive, full-bodied, surprisingly concentrated 2008 offers an opaque ruby/purple color as well as a glorious perfume of lead pencil shavings, spring flowers, blueberry liqueur and cassis. Full-bodied and impressively broad and savory with silky tannins, it is an unqualified success in the vintage." Reviewed by Robert Parker.