Tasting notes:

The Banfi-selected clones are grown on moderate slopes comprising reddish continental and clay sediments, with significant presence of stones and pebbles. The adapted cordon-spur pruning system is particularly well-suited to these vineyards. The wines are fermented in hybrid stainless steel/French oak tanks and aged in a combination of large French oak barrels and small barriques. The resulting wine, although high in alcohol, is exquisite and beautifully balanced. Deepish ruby-hued, the black cherry, wild strawberry and ripe cranberry fruit includes plenty of smoky oak, tobacco, roast coffee and buttercream. Rich and full-bodied, the palate flavours and warm alcohol are balanced by racy acidity and dense, velvet tannins. The lovely texture and concentrated flavours suggest that this is a wine to match a celebratory dinner of herb-crusted leg of mutton, slow-baked with root vegetables, and a mélange of herbs and spices.  (Patricia Stefanowicz MW)