Readers will find much to admire in these two new releases from Argiano, located in the southern part of the Montalcino zone. The 2004 Solengo presents gorgeous aromatics followed by super-ripe dark fruit, crushed flowers, herbs, spices and sweet toasted oak that flow from its opulent, full-bodied frame. Showing superb concentration, the wine is supported by an attractive note of underlying minerality that provides balance as well as a sense of proportion. It offers outstanding length, a silky-textured personality and ripe, sweet tannins on the finish in a rare display that marries power with elegance. It will be tempting to drink this early, but a few years of cellaring will give the wine an opportunity to express the fullest range of its potential. In 2004 Solengo is a blend of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 25% Syrah that spent 17 months in new French oak barrels. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2024. Importer: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200

Solengo, a blend of Cab Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah, has seemingly infinite depth thanks to its finely-tuned aromas of red cherry, toasted nut, cinnamon, almond and modern, smoky hickory. Elegant, vibrant and buoyant in the mouth, drink this wine after 2012.——M.L.(4/1/2008)—— 93