The 2004 Nardo (mostly Sangiovese with some Montepulciano and Cabernet Sauvignon) offers a more intense set of dark cherry, tobacco and scorched earth flavors on a structured, expansive frame with notable concentration, ripeness and richness. Highly enjoyable now, it should drink well for another decade. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2016.
Fabio Chiarelotto is the charismatic proprietor of this small estate located in Suvereto, just up the road from Tua Rita. Chiarelotto’s emphasis is clearly in the vineyards, where in addition to the main varietals he produces, he has also planted a few rows of grapes not native to Tuscany such as Refosco and Schiopettino, which are typically found in Friuli. The vinification facilities are bare bones and the winemaking is as stripped down as possible. These are very pure, unadulterated, textbook expressions of Suvereto terroir.
Importer: The Rare Wine Co., Sonoma, CA; tel. (707) 996-4484