Six months of aging in Slavonian oak has imparted a delicate cedary sheen to the juicy black-cherry flavors. Balancing acidity prevents it from being just another fruit bomb, and it develops some intriguing leather notes with air. Made of 90% Nero d'Avola, with 10% other mixed indigenous varieties, and from a small (five hectare) estate, this is just one example of why Sicily is a hotbed for bargain hunters. Modern technology and careful viticulture combined with hot sunny weather and unique grapes are yielding great wines at great prices.——J.C.(5/1/2002)—— 87