The 2011 Vermentino Vigna’ngena, from vineyards in Gallura, blossoms with gorgeous hints of peach, floral-infused honey, chamomile and mint. A rich, viscous wine, the Vigna’ngena captures the Capichera style at its very finest. The 2011 stands out for its compelling personality and fabulous overall balance. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018. Capichera is one of the top names in Sardinia. The wines are typically quite rich and extroverted in style, an approach that doesn’t always work. When the wines are on, though, they are drop-dead gorgeous. Over the last few years Dante Scaglione has been in charge of winemaking. My sense is that Capichera is still a work in progress, but the best wines point to a very bright future. No known American importer.

The 2002 Vigna ‘Ngena, is made from the estate’s younger vineyards and is fermented and aged in stainless steel. A light gold in color with greenish highlights, its fresh and penetrating aromas of pears, rosemary, and pine resin are matched by an equally vigorous palate of ripe fruit, bracing acidity, and fine energy and continuity. Importer: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200