The 2006 Sauvignon Winkl reveals tomato leaf and mint notes in a full-bodied, yet finely-sculpted expression of Sauvignon from Alto Adige. An underlying note of minerality gives this fat, generous wine a lovely sense of balance. It is a terrific effort at this level. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2016. Cantina di Terlano is one of Italy’s top estates, something made all the more remarkable considering it is a cooperative. The entry-level bottlings have been among my favorite house wines for many years. Fermented and aged in stainless steel, they offer much varietal character at reasonable prices. They are also a great introduction for readers who want to learn more about the unique wines of Alto Adige. In addition, the estate produces a set of single-vineyard whites and reds which are reference-point wines for the region. The single-vineyard wines typically spend longer on their lees and are aged partly or wholly in casks. The top-of-the-line selections (in fatter bottles) see a percentage of smaller barrels. The Sauvignon Quarz, Gewurztraminer Lunare and Nova Domus in particular represent some of the most intensely flavored, unique and age-worthy wines to come out of the region.Importer: Banville & Jones Wine Merchants, New York, NY; tel. (204) 294-4899

Pristine and luminous in appearance, this typical northern Italian Sauvignon Blanc is clear and clean with enticing aromas of exotic fruit, peach and kiwi. Peach flavors flood the mouth and are cut clean by zesty acidity on the finish.——M.L.(12/1/2007)—— 89