As Super Tuscans go, this is a model wine, always consistent and exciting. This version is a rich, deep, balanced beauty with aromas of mocha, molasses, fudge and plum. The palate bursts with boysenberry, plum and chocolate, while the mildly tannic finish is toasty and full of coffee. Modern in style but lovely.
— M.S.
(10/1/2004)
Gorgeous stuff; the real deal in terms of meaty, modern Chianti. And from an excellent year, which explains why it’s so saturated and rich. For lovers of hefty, fruity reds that have tannin and structure but can still be enjoyed now, this is your ticket. It is deep, full-bodied and packed with tobacco, chocolate and Tuscan sunshine.
— W.E.
(4/1/2005)
Cerviolo is a blend that builds in intensity on the palate, offering excellent extraction and a distinctive mix of Christmas spice followed by dry flowers and red fruit. This wine has loads of personality, jackhammer tannins and natural licorice and spice nuances on the finish. But those tannins definitely need more time to relax, so drink after 2012.
— M.L.
(4/1/2008)
Deep concentration and color set the stage and are followed by warm tones of black cherry, spice, leather, molasses, maple syrup and tobacco. This Riserva, with 5% Merlot, has a plush, velvety edge that is backed by nicely formed tannins and a chewy, succulent texture.
— M.L.
(9/1/2008)
Right off the bat it smells beautiful--gorgeous black cherries and deep chocolaty earth. It’s a little less overwhelming in the mouth, but by no means is it shy or faulty. A blend of Sangioveto, Cabernet, and Merlot that works like a charm with food. The plummy fruit and soft woody elements make their mark without being too forward.
— M.S.
(9/1/2000)
The nose of this winning wine has coffee, vanilla and cassis aromas. Smooth but firm, the palate leaves a slight pucker while providing rich coffee, vanilla, mint and cherry flavors with style. Will be better with a bit of age—let it soften for a year or so.
— J.F.
(9/1/2001)
This perennial knock-out is excellent again. It has maple, coffee and other wood-driven aromatics. The mouth is like a bowl of black plums mixed with mocha, coffee and bitter chocolate. And the finish is ultrasmooth, with light but welcome intrusions of vanilla. In a perfect world it could use at least two to three years of aging. —M.S.
— M.S.
(12/31/2002)
The label is from San Fabiano Calcinaia, and the wine opens with clean berry aromas and plenty of oak. The palate is overtly fruity, with bright cherry and blueberry flavors. The finish brings back some of that powerful oak from the nose, and you taste mocha and coffee as a result. Well balanced, so the whole sings louder than the parts. —M.S.
— M.S.
(12/31/2002)