The 2004 Vin Santo del Chianti Classico Occhio di Pernice emerges from the glass with an intriguing array of smoke, licorice, honey, scorched earth and tar, all of which add considerable complexity to the fruit. This is an exotic, full-throttle style of Vin Santo, but there is more than enough freshness to balance some of the wine’s more opulent leanings. From time to time the volatile acidity (always present in sweet wines) sticks out a bit, which is the only thing that keeps the score from going higher. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2024. Importer: Dalla Terra, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-5405

A refined style, silky in texture and complex in flavor, with honey, caramel, fig paste, dried apricot, tobacco and clove notes boosted by vivid acidity. This cascades to a long aftertaste of dried fruit and spice. Very pure and harmonious. Drink now through 2020. 87 cases made, 25 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Vin Santo del Chianti Classico Select to Add