The 2010 Poggio alla Guardia is a relatively simple, accessible wine with lovely juiciness. Sweet red cherries, tobacco, dried flowers and herbs meld together nicely in this medium-bodied, refined red. The aromas are a bit faded, suggesting the wine is best enjoyed sooner rather than later. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2019.
This is another strong set of wines from proprietor Paolo Panerai and long-time winemaker Alessandro Cellai. I find it interesting that Panerai pursues a much more refined approach at Castellare, his legacy Tuscan winery, than at Rocca di Frassinello, where the wines are made in a more full-throttle style that pushes the edge of ripeness.
Importer: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200