Although this wine is mainly Sangiovese, the 18% of Cabernet Sauvignon rules, with its intense blackcurrant and cassis flavors. New French oak also stars, contributing smoky vanillins. It’s a lush wine that highlights its appellation’s soft but complex tannins. As drinkable as it is, it will probably develop through the decade.
— S.H.
(5/1/2004)
Trentadue’s La Storia bottlings are their reserves, and the designation is justified for this Zin. Soft and melted in texture, with succulent wild blackberry jam, milk chocolate and cherry flavors, it’s very dry, with gentle tannins. There’s a butterscotchy, vanilla richness on the finish that probably comes from charred oak.
— S.H.
(12/15/2006)
A lovely wine, solidly in the classic North Coast style of elaborate fruit and lush, soft tannins. Floods the mouth with delicious blackberry and currant flavors, well-framed with smoky vanillins from oak barrels. Straddles a nice line between sweetness and toughness. Best now.
— S.H.
(5/1/2004)
A really nice Merlot, and look at that price. It’s dry, elegant and entirely balanced, with a rich earthy texture. Shows classic flavors of black cherries, black currants, violets, anise and sweet sandalwood. Terrific value.
— S.H.
(5/1/2010)
Fairly bursting with mandarin orange and lemon lime flavors, the wine serves up pleasing medley of bright texture and vivid fruit. Long at the end.
— J.M.
(12/15/2002)
From two warm regions, Dry Creek and Alexander Valley, a well-ripened wine with classic flavors of sweet blackcurrants, cassis, cherry pie and dark chocolate. The tannins are worthy of mention for their velvety texture. There’s really a lot of enjoyment here, at a relatively cheap price for good Cab.
— S.H.
(6/1/2004)
From a “Pet” pioneer, a big, dark, thick red wine. It’s soft but rich in tannins, and very ripe in blackberry, chocolate and coffee flavors. It’s also very oaky. Easy to drink, and earns extra points for nuance.
— S.H.
(3/1/2005)
Fairly sleek and elegant, with pretty black cherry, plum, raspberry and spice flavors, all smoothly integrated and fashioned in a classy, elegant manner. Smoky oak and a touch of anise add interest. Bright on the finish.
— W.E.
(11/1/2003)