The 2003 Maurizio Zanella is a French oak-aged blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Interestingly, the 2003 shows much greater freshness and vibrancy than other recent vintages. Blackberries, blueberries, cedar, tobacco and grilled herbs come together beautifully in this medium-bodied, classically-styled red. The wine’s balance, finish and sense of proportion are first-rate. The 2003 is one of the best vintages of this wine I can remember tasting. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2021. Importer: Banville & Jones Wine Merchants, New York, NY; tel. (204) 294-4899

The 2001 Rosso del Sebino Maurizio Zanella, the estate’s top red, is 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc aged in French oak. The wine shows lovely concentration and depth in a medium-bodied expression of blackberries, plums, cassis, herbs and French oak. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2013. Importer: Terlato Wines International, Lake Bluff, IL; tel. (847) 604 8900

The 1997 Maurizio Zanella Rosso del Sebino is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Cabernet Franc and 20% Merlot aged in French oak barrels. The wine is surprisingly fresh considering its age, with tell-tale notes of cassis cedar, plums, and spices buttressed by round, soft tannins. Although the wine is somewhat modest in its depth, the elegant, restrained style is quite harmonious. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2012. Importer: Terlato Wines International, Lake Bluff, IL; tel. (847) 604-8900

Rich and opulent, with loads of spice, chocolate and plum flavors. Tannic, but not overpowering. A generous wine with a smooth finish. Drink now through 1998. 1,515 cases made.??–null??Region: Italy / Vino da Tavola-Lombardy Select to Add

A crisp, lean red, with tightly reined in cranberry, currant and oak flavors that turn tart and spicy with hints of tobacco on the finish. Best after 1995. 2,000 cases made.??–null??Region: Italy / Vino da Tavola-Lombardy Select to Add