The estate’s 2007 Scrio (Syrah) is simply breathtaking. This rich, opulent red caresses the palate seamlessly with masses of dark fruit in a large-scaled expression of Syrah. Spices, mint and flowers develop in the glass, adding further shades of nuance. The plushness of the fruit builds towards a rich, immensely rewarding finish. Scrio is fermented in open-top French oak barriques, and the oak is noticeable at this stage, so the wine is best left alone in the cellar for a few years. This is magnificent juice! Anticipated maturity: 2017-2027. Le Macchiole crafted some of the most successful wines in Bolgheri in 2007. Proprietor Cinzia Merli and long-time consulting oenologist Luca D’Attoma continue to make important strides, as the estate seems to be heading for a less obvious, decidedly elegant style than has sometimes been the case in the past. A conversion to biodynamic farming in some of the estate’s vineyards and a more enlightened use of French oak are among the recent developments at Le Macchiole. Importer: Domaine Select, New York, NY; tel. (212) 279-0799

The estate's 2007 Scrio (Syrah) is simply breathtaking. This rich, opulent red caresses the palate seamlessly with masses of dark fruit in a large-scaled expression of Syrah. Spices, mint and flowers develop in the glass, adding further shades of nuance. The plushness of the fruit builds towards a rich, immensely rewarding finish. Scrio is fermented in open-top French oak barriques, and the oak is noticeable at this stage, so the wine is best left alone in the cellar for a few years. This is magnificent juice!

Scrio is a top-notch Syrah from Coastal Tuscany that does an excellent job of portraying not only the true nuances of the noble grape variety, but also the bounty of the beautiful territory that shaped it. Let this wine transport you to cypress-lined roads, stone farmhouses and Tuscan cuisine. The pleasure factor and richness are unbeatable. ——M.L.(12/15/2010)—— 98