5 | Wine | Piedmont Misc, 86 or higher

"Vegetal and earthy aroma follow through to a black cherry flavor emerging in the mouth. Seems unsettled now, with a slightly bitter finish. This is concentrated, so give it a few months to sort itself out."

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

"Scavino’s 2011 Rosso da Tavola, a kitchen sink blend of numerous red varieties, is an attractive entry-level offering. This supple, generous wine is sure to find many admirers among consumers looking for a friendly, every day Piedmont red."

"An overachiever in this vintage. Crushed flowers, pine, resin, menthol and herbs add layers of complexity to the racy, super-ripe red fruits. Despite its generosity, this remains an understated, representative Gattinara with lovely balance and harmony."

"This perennial favorite sparkles with tangerine peel, honeysuckle, vanilla, creamery butter and honeyed notes. Very clean and zesty. It drinks as sweet as it smells. Fortunately, the acidity is high and refreshing, the wine exceptionally clean and well-made."

"Offers pretty blackberry and floral aromas, with cigar tobacco hints. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and silky, balanced fruit."

"The 2006 Gattinara Castelle flows with the essence of dark fruit, smoke, tar and scorched earth. This is a decidedly powerful, intense Gattinara endowed with gorgeous intensity in its fruit and fabulous overall balance. Floral notes are woven gracefully into the juicy, generous finish. The Castelle has more than enough structure to develop nicely for a number of years."

"The 2005 Gattinara Riserva possesses more depth, richness and sheer stuffing than the regular bottling. Incense, tar, wild cherries and herbs are some of the nuances that come to life in this powerful Gattinara. Another few years in bottle should allow the tannins to soften and the fruit to emerge with even greater authority."