2015 Caiarossa

31% Cabernet Franc, 20% Merlot, 17% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Petit Verdot, 10% Sangiovese, 9% Syrah, 2% Alicante. An unusual vintage with alternate periods of intense rain and dryness, all the way to harvest. Full, opulent nose – pretty ripe! Almost tarry and overripe but, just, saved but some freshness though the finish is a little rusty naily, with some heat. Not the finest but the tannins are well handled. Ungracious finish. (JR)

Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Sangiovese, Petit Verdot, Alicante from biodynamically tended vineyards. The wine was aged tonneaux and barrels from new (30%) to three years old oak, a total of 11 months for the most delicate grapes, Alicante, up to 20 months for the most powerful ones, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Sauvignon, followed by six months in concrete.  Impenetrably dark ruby. Internationally moulded nose of dark fruit but extremely seductive, giving much more expensive Bolgheri a run for its money. Succulent and supple and with plenty of fruit and bolstered with lots of chewy tannins. You can approach this now, but will show more depth in two to three years time. (WS)

Unusual blend of Viognier and Chardonnay that more than convinces. Oats, honeyed white fruits and a hint of candied orange on the nose. Peach, apricot and ripe mandarin with a fine citrus nerve and with understated but clearly noticeable oak. Freshness prickle of youth. Irresistible and fresh. Bingo! (WS)