A strong effort, the 1996 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano exhibits a complex, vanillin, cedary, spice box, black cherry-scented nose, followed by very good to excellent flavor intensity. The wine also exhibits some leather and strawberry jam characteristics intermixed with underbrush and, as the French say, garrigue (a Provencal herb and earth melange). The finish lasts 15-20 seconds. This offering is supple enough to be drunk now, but promises to age for 7-8 years. Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900

This drink-me Nobile has plenty of plum and berry character, with hints of earth and leather. Medium-bodied, with silky tannins and a medium finish. Drink now through 2001. 800 cases made.??–JS??Region: Italy / Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Select to Add