1999 Avvoltore

One of the finest estates in Morellino de Scansano, this offering from the single vineyard called Poggio Alla Mozza is made from 75% Sangiovese, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Syrah aged for 18 months in French barriques. Yields were a lowly 24 hectoliters per hectare. The wine is deep, backward, medium to full-bodied, powerful yet elegant, with sweet black currant and cherry fruit intermixed with lead pencil, vanillin, and spice. Displaying superb purity, a beautiful mid-palate, good fleshiness, and a long, pure finish, it is young and unevolved, but accessible. Drink it over the next 10-15 years. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565