The 2001 Don Antonio, as in other years the prototype Nero d’Avola of Sicily, is a very dark ruby red with a potent and very ample nose of rich red and black fruit and chocolate. The deep, concentrated and sustained flavors are very sensual in their velvety texture, but have power to spare on the finish. Drink: 2004-2014. Sicily’s finest Nero d’Avola-based wines? Over the past four years they have been made by the Morgante family at Grotte, near Agrigento, with the inspired assistance of Riccardo Cotarella, and this year as well they appear to have something which gives them that extra margin of distinction. Importer: Winebow, Hohokus, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620

Aromas of wood and dark fruits; flavors of dense chewy black fruits, spices and fruit cake. This is a big but structured wine, with generous fruit and nice acidity on the finish.——R.V.(10/1/2003)—— 88