The 2008 Il Blu hits the palate with a blast of dark fruit but then loses much of its intensity on the mid-palate. Dark red fruit and flowers linger on the finish. The 2008 shows good balance but is a far cry from some of the recent vintages that have been superb. This mid-weight, accessible Il Blu is best enjoyed in its youth. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018. This is a mixed set of releases from Brancaia, mostly owing to the nature of the vintages themselves. The flagship Il Blu in particular seems to have suffered in 2008. Importer: The Hess Collection, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 255-1144

A big and juicy wine, with blackberries, dark chocolate and spices. Full bodied, with soft and velvety tannins with an intense finish. Rich red. Best in 2012.