A pure expression of Syrah, the 2010 Scrio offers a finely woven and complete portrait of the grape with thick toasted oak notes at the back. Cured meat, black pepper and chewy fruit are supported by barrel-driven tones of chocolate and fresh cinnamon. The gorgeous wine is a few years off from full oak integration. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025. Cinzia Merli and her expert team (with consulting enologist Luca D'Attoma) have this extraordinary capacity of transmitting the poise and grace they possess as people to the wines they make. Unlike many others in the area, Le Macchiole reported excellent results in 2010 and started harvest in many blocks just a few days later than normal thanks to slow and steady fruit ripening at slightly cooler temperatures. The 2010 vintage, they inform me, may be their best yet this century. For my tastes, 2010 does indeed show exceptional balance but I wouldn't put it ahead of standout vintages like 2007 and 2004. Importer: Domaine Select Wine Estates; www.domaineselect.com

Another striking wine, the 2010 Scrio (Syrah) is off the charts. Mocha, spices, chocolate, black cherries and flowers all wrap around the palate. Varietal aromas and flavors lie behind the wine's superb textural richness and depth. Once fermented in barrel, Scrio is now vinified in stainless steel, which seems to allow the aromatics to truly soar. Over the last few months, the 2010 has developed beautifully. The trademark Bolgheri richness is still present, but the estate has added layers of finesse and complexity that weren't always present in the wines. This is a dazzling effort from Le Macchiole.