2000 Capannelle & Avignonesi 50&50

The 2000 50 & 50 is a trifle less powerful and voluptuous than the full-blown 1999 version, the best since the debut vintage of 1988, but it is still an excellent wine, a rich ruby in color, lavishly spicy and sweet, supple and sensual in texture, elegant and sustained on the close. The lingering presence of the oak, however, indicates that there is a bit less concentration than in 1999, a sensation which is reinforced on the finish, slightly less ample and weighty. Drink: 2004-2015. Avignonesi’s line has steadily shrunk in recent years, as many of the individual wines have become blends and others have simply been dropped. The varietal Chardonnay and Sauvignon bottlings have become one wine, as have the Merlot and Cabernet, and the Pinot Noir has been eliminated. The line-up is still a strong one, however, and in certain categories competitive with Tuscany’s and Italy’s best. Importer: Dalla Terra Imports, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-5405