1995 Nardo

The Nardo di Montepeloso, a Sangiovese/Cabernet Sauvignon blend, is produced from low yields of under 2 tons of fruit per acre, but the production is a microscopic 350+ cases. The exquisite 1995 Nardo di Montepeloso reveals a saturated black/purple color, as well as a huge, sweet, unformed nose of prunes, blackcurrants, and smoky new oak. The wine is massive on the palate, with a full-bodied personality, viscous, intense layers, and a lush, pure finish. This is a winemaking tour de force! Give it 3-4 years of cellaring, and drink it over the following two decades. This estate has been getting attention from the serious segments of the Italian press. Both vineyards, Montepeloso Rosso and Nardo di Montepeloso (a total of 13.5 acres), are located on the Tuscan coast, not far from the famed winemaking estates of Sassicaia and Ornellaia. I was blown away by the intensity these wines possessed, particularly in the relatively difficult, lighter 1994 vintage. The Nardo di Montepeloso is a blend of 70% Sangiovese and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon aged completely in new French barrels, and bottled without fining or filtration. A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Hohokus, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620