A well-oaked specimen, one with sandalwood, hickory, coffee and Middle Eastern spice notes on the nose. Big and generous with its plum, berry and thick but slick oak flavors. Simply put, this is a modern but finely made red that doesn’t require cellar time; the blend is Sangiovese, Merlot and a splash of Cabernet. ——M.S.(9/1/2006)—— 91