The internationally-styled 2000 Don Luigi (a barrique-aged blend of 90% Montepulciano and 10% Tintilia) boasts an inky ruby/purple color in addition to a sweet nose of black fruits, spice box, creosote, and vanilla. Full-bodied, dense, and chewy, with sweet tannin and well-integrated alcohol (13.6%), it should drink well for 7-8 years.
The brilliant winemaker Riccardo Cotarella is now performing his magic at this estate, which should be sought out by readers seeking stunning wine values.
A Leonardo Locascio Selection, Winebow, Hohokus, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620