This is a slightly flat expression of Chardonnay from Cortona, Tuscany, with aromas of burnt almond and mature fruit. The mouthfeel is heavy, thick (lines of glycerol stream down the side of the glass) but also loaded with intensity and power. ——M.L.(7/1/2010)—— 84

The 1994 Chardonnay Il Marzocco reveals loads of spicy, smoky new oak in the nose, a creamy texture, good ripeness, but a monolithic personality with medium body, and attractive orange/kirsch-like fruit flavors. It should be drunk over the next year.Obviously, this wine is absurdly over-priced for what it is, but I realize that many readers have a loyalty to certain wines, as well as specific countries. Some may simply want to drink Italian whites regardless of how bad a value they represent!Importer: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200