The 2009 Fratta dazzles from start to finish. I love the energy and focus here. Layers of dark fruit flow effortlessly through to a long, explosive finish buffered by beautifully integrated tannins. Everything is simply in the right place. Fratta is 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Merlot that spends 12 months in 100% new French oak. Anticipated maturity: 2019-2029.
This is another strong set of wines from Fausto Maculan, one of the leading lights in Veneto. My only real criticism is that the top reds are being released far too early for wines of such pedigree. These wines rank among the very best being made anywhere, but it is not surprising they remain relatively unknown considering they arrive in the marketplace too young to be fully appreciated. Sadly, there is no new release of the flagship Acininobili, but there are plenty of other great choices in this strong line-up.
A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620