Santadi Monica di Sardegna "Antigua" 2004

From one of Sardegna's great cooperatives comes this blend of 85% Monica di Sardegna and 15% Carignano (both, along with Cannonau, originally from Spain). Ruby red to purple in color; earthy aromas of cherries and blackberries with hints of camphor; palate of blueberries with a peppery spice quality like an Australian Shiraz. Bright acidity and well structured with a soft finish. Very interesting, great value.

Arnaldo Caprai Poggio Belvedere 2004

From Gambero Rosso's 2006 winery of the year and perhaps Umbria's best producer comes this value-laden wine. 100% Sangiovese, bright ruby red in color, hints of wild berries, leather and tobacco on the nose. Spicy with a spectrum of cherry fruit on the palette, well balanced acidity, and a smooth lingering finish. An elegant wine.

Toscolo Chianti Classico 2004

Ruby red in color. Ripe cherries and plum skins on the palette with hints of black pepper and tobacco. Medium-bodied and well balanced with bright acidity showing all of the elegance of the '04 vintage. A well made Chianti.

Tedeschi Capitel dei Nicalo Valpolicella

A partial (10%) "ripasso" style wine which has undergone abbreviated "appassimento." Interestingly, it is a blend of Corvina, Rondinella, and Sangiovese. This is a refined wine with aromas of cedar, chocalate, and flint and a palette loaded with ripe dark fruits, currants, raisins, and forest berry jam. With nice structure, a little spice, and a soft finish, this wine is very approachable and deserving of some contemplation, all making it a great value from one of the Veneto's top producers.

Badia a Coltibuono Chianti Classico "RS" 2004

The "Abbey of the Good Harvest" is one of Tuscany's oldest cellars dating back to the 11th century. RS stands for Roberto Stucchio, the winemaker-oenologist-owner. 100% Sangiovese aged in small oak barrels. Hallmark Sangiovese characterists define this wine: ripe red cherry-berry fruit, tobacco, leather, bright acidity, and a little spice. Traditional in style but very accessible and well-balanced.

Aldo Marenco Barbera d'Alba "Pirona" 2004

Purple in color; violets and anise on the nose; medium bodied with raspberry and dark berry fruit on the palette; well-balanced with nice acidity. Eight months in French Oak tonneau, organic, and unfiltered. A beautifully styled Barbera sure to be a crowd pleaser.