1997 Gagliole Rosso

A new discovery for me, this relatively young (the debut vintage was 1994) operation has fashioned two beautiful blends of 90% Sangiovese and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. Yields are kept extremely low (less than 30 hectoliters per hectare), and, sadly, the production to date has been approximately 1,300 cases of each vintage. The impressive 1997 Rosso boasts a dense purple color as well as a ripe nose of blackberries, smoke, tobacco, chocolate, and toast. Complex aromatics lead to a medium to full-bodied wine with a gorgeously sweet, opulently-textured attack and mid-palate. With beautiful purity, freshness, and overall harmony, it will drink well for a decade. Importer: The Rare Wine Co., Sonoma, CA; tel. (707) 996-4484