In 1996, Castello dei Rampolla produced an extremely limited production (about 200 cases) Sangiovese/Cabernet Sauvignon/Petite Verdot blend called Vigna d'Alceo. This terrific wine bears more than a passing resemblance to a top-class Medoc. The opaque purple color is followed by gobs of toasty new oak, and jammy cassis fruit intermixed with minerals, spice, and cedar. Medium-bodied, with outstanding purity and concentration, exceptional harmony, and moderately high tannin, this is a promising, seriously-endowed wine for readers with the patience to wait 4-5 years. It should keep for two decades. Castello dei Rampolla has long been one of my favorite Tuscan producers. I began purchasing their wines with the 1983 Sammarco. A recently drunk 1985 Sammarco was still in terrific shape, and it continues to behave like a top-class Graves from Bordeaux. Importer: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200

A new wine from Rampolla, potentially the Chateau Mouton-Rothschild of Tuscany. A fabulous, superbly structured red, overflowing with black currant, lead pencil and mint aromas. Full-bodied, with layers of velvety tannins and a long aftertaste of ripe fruit and spearmint. Gorgeous. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Best after 2004. 830 cases made. -JS