The 2005 Fratta is a cuvee of 68% Cabernet Sauvignon and 32% Merlot that spent 12 months in new French oak. There is greater density and richness, along with superb balance between the wine's fruit and its structural components. This refined, elegant red offers plenty of varietal character and a long, immensely satisfying finish. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2025. This is another set of strong wines from one of Veneto's most inspired producers. Fausto Maculan is best known for his phenomenal dessert wines, but his dry reds merit serious consideration as well. 2005 was a cool, damp year which presented its greatest challenges to early-maturing varieties like Merlot, while the later-ripening Cabernet Sauvignon had time to recuperate.A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620