Castello di Ama did not make any single vineyard Chianti Classicos in 1998, preferring to blend everything into their regular cuvee. Emerging from a high elevation/cool microclimate, it reveals a certain austerity and leanness, typical of many 1998s from central Tuscany. Exhibiting notes of new saddle leather, olives, red currants, and cherries, it is a medium-bodied, dry, angular wine which, hopefully, will flesh out over the next 1-2 years. Anticipated maturity: now-2008. A Leonardo Locascio Selection, Winebow, Hohokus, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620

Very clean red, with berry and cherry aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied, with fine, light tannins and a fresh, crisp and fruity finish. Drink now. 12,500 cases made.??–JS??Region: Italy / Chianti Classico Select to Add

Plummy fruit supported by cocoa and herb notes and a decadent, overripe quality seen in no other 1998s. The ripe, supple mouthfeel provides sweet, if not overly nuanced, fruit. Finishes long, with even tannins and sweet-tart chocolate and licorice flavors. Hold a year; drink through 2006.——W.E.(4/1/2001)—— 87