La Gerla’s 2008 Rosso di Montalcino is one the more concentrated, rich wines of the vintage. Sweet spices, plums, toasted oak and licorice are some of the notes that emerge from this expansive Rosso. The aromas and flavors are already rather forward, so I wouldn’t risk hanging on to this for too long. A little advance airing will do the wine a world of good, as the oak is a bit pronounced at the outset. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2012.
Various America importers, including: Vera Foods, Springfield, NJ; tel. (973) 912-0274; Liberty Wine Selection (Slocum Import), New York, NY; tel. (212) 268-8033; Wine Ware House, City of Commerce, CA; tel. (323) 724-1700