Mama Mia! The 1999 Ateo is a brilliant effort from this prodigious producer. It is a blend of 45% Sangiovese, 35% Merlot, and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine possesses a deep, saturated garnet/plum color in addition to a pure, sweet bouquet of saddle leather aromas intertwined with black currants, licorice, tobacco, and plums. Elegant yet powerful, medium to full-bodied, with sweet tannin and enough acidity to provide definition, it can be enjoyed over the next 10-12 years.
A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300; Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700; and Estate Wines, Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411