The 2009 Le Redini is a new entry-level wine made predominantly from Merlot, with 10% Alicante. Layers of warm, ripe fruit radiate from this polished, impeccable Tuscan red. The wine possesses terrific intensity and fabulous overall balance, with silky tannins that frame the finish. This is a very strong first effort. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2021. This is the strongest set of wines I have tasted from Cavalli. Importer: Massanois Imports, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 470-6769

From superstar fashion designer Roberto Cavalli and his son Tommaso comes this plush blend of Merlot (90%) and Alicante that is aged 10 months in French oak. Le Redini is a soft, velvety wine that shows food-friendly flavors of exotic spice, black cherry and dried tobacco.——M.L.(2/1/2012)—— 90