Although earlier vintages of this cuvee revealed an excessive vegetal character, the 2004 Brentino (a stainless steel and French oak barrel-aged blend of 55% Merlot and 45% Cabernet Sauvignon) is an elegant, Bordeaux-styled red offering hints of licorice, black and red currants, spice box, and cedar. This medium-bodied, tasty, soft, authentic tasting red exhibits plenty of character as well as style. Drink it over the next 2-3 years.A Leonardo LoCascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620; fax (201) 445-9868