The 2010 Sammarco Vino da Tavola is based on Cabernet Sauvignon with smaller parts Sangiovese and Merlot. The 2010 vintage is still very closed and will require ten years or more to blossom. What you get at this young stage in the wine’s life are tightly wound tones of bramble, wild berry, light spice, bacon fat and loads of vibrant medicinal herb. The mouthfeel shows a great degree of finesse and silkiness that will surely evolve in time to embrace an even finer texture. Give it time.

Deep ruby-red. Blackcurrant, violet, aromatic herbs and cedar on the bright nose. Luscious and deep, with red and dark fruit flavors showing a medicinal reserve. The finish features noble, polished tannins. Though still young and tightly shut down, the 2010 Sammarco looks to be one of the best ever made at the estate. Although Sassicaia and Solaia are more famous, Sammarco has always been imbued with rare class for a mainly-cabernet sauvignon wine from Tuscany, and the 2010 really brings this quality to the fore.

Brighter and more structured than the 2009 Sammarco, this ’10 is driven by firm tannins and a streak of graphite right now. Subtle red fruits tinged with tarragon and spices hint at the complexity to come, with a vitality and concentration that indicates it will improve with time. Give it several years in the cellar, or decant it a few hours before dinner, and serve with a rare steak drizzled with olive oil.