The 2003 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is a terrific effort at this level. It offers much persistence and intensity in its spiced black cherry, plum and road tar flavors, with a dark, brooding personality and plenty of grip on the finish. This stylish Vino Nobile should drink well for at least another decade. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2017. Proprietor Paola De Ferrari makes some of the area’s reference-point wines at her estate in Montepulciano. Her single-vineyard Nocio dei Boscarelli is typically among the finest expressions of Vino Nobile. Winemaking is overseen by consulting oenologist Maurizio Castelli. Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900

Good fruit, with blackberry and dark chocolate character. Medium-bodied, with medium-chewy tannins and a medium finish. Needs some time to mellow. Best after 2006. 3,500 cases made, 800 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Select to Add