3 | Wine | Other Red, 86 or higher

"Another striking, entry-level wine, the 2010 Isola dei Nuraghi Costera caresses the palate with juicy dark cherries, plums, tobacco, spices and licorice. Elements of sweetness, inner perfume and pure silkiness distinguish the Costera from the vast majority of its peers. A hint of sweet flowers and mint lingers on the finish."

"Inky ruby. Spice-accented aromas and flavors of black and blue fruits and cola, with notes of dark chocolate and licorice. Concentrated and powerful on the palate, with a spicy note building with air. Intense licorice, blackcurrant and bitter cherry notes linger on the spicy, youthfully tannic finish. Outstanding value here; there are very few all-graciano Riojas made, and they all cost a lot more than this one."

"Attractive floral, plum and raspberry aromas are elegant and complex, offering a spicy, juicy edge and ending with supple tannins."

"A delicious, entry-level offering, the 2011 Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Vigne Nuove is fabulous. Juicy red cherries, flowers, mint and tobacco jump from the glass as this unoaked Montepulciano shows off its considerable juiciness and sheer appeal."

Violet shades to the eye, with red orchard fruit on the nose. Dense flavors of fresh strawberries and cherries on the palate, with suggestions of oregano and thyme in the background. Grows fresher and brighter, with a hint of spices emerging with time. Full flavored and persistent, with fine tannins slowly unfurling. Real power and grace in the glass. Pair this one with roasted chicken or pork.
- Binny's Tasting Note

"A dark Nero, packed with layers of baking spice, plum skin, fig paste and maduro tobacco. A modern style, with a long aftertaste of spice and berries."

"A gorgeous entry-level wine, the 2011 Etna Rosso is remarkably balanced and poised. Sweet herbs, tobacco, licorice, fennel and herbs emerge form this utterly gracious and compelling red. This is a great showing from the Rosso. The wine’s depth, balance and harmony are first-class all the way. Based on this showing, I can hardly wait to taste the other wines in the range!"

"Layers of smoke, grilled herbs, menthol and minerals are overlayed on a core of black fruit. The Ramitello shows serious power and intensity all the way through to the palate staining finish. Floral notes add lift and freshness on the close."

"The 2009 Signo Bobal (a blend of 90% Bobal and 10% Syrah) may be the finest Bobal-based wine I have ever had. It was bottled without fining or filtration after spending time in mostly French and some American oak. It boasts a dense purple color along with wonderful sweet, jammy strawberry and black cherry notes intermixed with floral, licorice, graphite and spice characteristics. This dense red reveals a terrific texture as well as a full-bodied mouthfeel, yet it is light on its feet. This amazing Bobal should drink well for 3-4 years." -Robert Parker

"Bright and juicy, this red shows cherry, blackberry and a touch of bitter almond. Mouthwatering, with moderate length."