The 2005 Solinero (Syrah) bursts from the glass with heady dark fruit, truffles, scorched earth, licorice and tar, all of which come together on a rich, sumptuous frame. The slightly late harvest style is felt in the wine's weight, while 12 months in French oak have been absorbed beautifully. This is an impressive, full-throttle red from Rapitala. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020.
These two reds are the finest wines among the current set of releases from Rapitala, one of Sicily's largest producers.
Importer: Frederick Wildman and Sons Ltd, New York, NY; tel. (212) 355-0700