There are only 15 barrels (approximately 375 cases) of the 100% Syrah 1998 Sant'Antimo Favius, which may be the finest Italian Syrah I have tasted. An opaque purple color is followed by a classic bouquet of bacon fat, blackberry liqueur, and cassis. This monstrous fruit bomb is unctuous, thick, and unbelievably concentrated. The wine's new oak aging has been absorbed by its formidable concentration of fruit. Drink this exuberant, in your face offering over the next 5-7 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

Lovely aromas of chocolate, game and blackberries. Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a chewy finish. Needs bottle age. Cool, new wine. Syrah. Best after 2002. 550 cases made.??–JS??Region: Italy / Sant'Antimo Select to Add