Piaggia's 2003 Carmignano Riserva (70% Sangiovese, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot) is a full-bodied, concentrated effort packed with jammy, raisiny, over-ripe fruit and sweet toasted oak flavors. The hard, unripe tannins and prominent heat on the finish are signs of a very difficult growing season. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2016. Proprietor Mauro Vanucci makes richly structured wines from his 15 hectares in the Carmignano appellation. He favors late harvests, long macerations lasting several weeks and small French oak barrels for aging. Vanucci's approach to making super-ripe, concentrated wines yields its best results in balanced growing seasons such as 2004, but in the scorching-hot 2003 he may have pushed the envelope too far. Importer: A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700, and Estate Wines, Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411

This is a little earthy, but also decadent and very rich, with loads of ripe fruit. Full, round and generous. Delicious. Drink now. 2,915 cases made, 800 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Carmignano Select to Add

This is a gorgeous and very smooth wine that boasts all the irresistible traits of a well-made, modern Italian red. It showcases deep ruby concentration and everlasting aromas of ripe cherry, chocolate fudge, coffee, clove and spice. The mouthfeel is intense and penetrating and there’s loads of chewy succulence on the finish.——M.L.(3/1/2008)—— 92