The estate’s 2004 Barco Reale di Carmignano (70% Sangiovese, 20% Cabernet and 10% Canaiolo), a dark translucent ruby, displays an earthy profile, with perfumed notes of dark red cherries, tobacco and menthol. Medium in body, it offers excellent length, fine tannins and enough stuffing to drink well to age ten or so. It is also an excellent value. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2014. Capezzana is located in the historic Carmignano appellation, where wine has been produced since Etruscan times. The Contini Bonacossi family traces its winemaking lineage at the estate back an astonishing 12 centuries. The property encompasses 670 hectares of which approximately 100 are under vine. The micro-climate is warm but evening breezes from the nearby Apennine mountains serve to temper the daytime heat. Importer: Moet Hennessy USA, New York, NY; tel. (212) 251-8200

Sangiovese’s delicate nuances meet Cabernet Sauvignon’s muscle to shape a ruby wine with notes of red fruit, blueberry and wood spice. The wine showcases its fruity youthfulness and approachability and has drying tannins at the close. ——M.L.(5/1/2007)—— 86