1999 La Sirena Sangiovese Juliana's Vineyard

The 1999 Sangiovese, which will be the last vintage from the Pope Valley fruit source, is one of California's best examples. Its dark ruby color is followed by an attractive nose of sweet saddle leather, strawberries, cherry jam, and spice. Good acidity gives the wine a pleasant tanginess. This medium-bodied, fruity Sangiovese is ideal for drinking over the next 2-4 years. Tel. (707) 942-1105.

Medium red. Expressive aromas of dried cranberry, tobacco, red licorice and nutty oak. Lush, oaky and sweet, with complicating notes of iron and mocha. Lots of wine here, ripe and sweet in the middle. Nicely balanced to offer early pleasure. Finishes with dusty, fine tannins. "My ripest, deepest sangiovese yet," says Barrett, who made only 380 cases from this very small crop, compared to 600 in past normal years.