The basic Sangiovese cuvee typically includes about 5% Merlot in the blend. The fruity 2000 Sangiovese Riserva reveals the vintage's sweetness, but not much depth or intensity. The wine, which spends two years in old barrels, displays good structure, excellent purity, and plenty of Sangiovese character, something that few California Sangioveses reveal. Tel. (707) 255-5862

The 1998 Sangiovese Riserva seems to have gotten all the best stuff. There are 1,000 cases of this wine that is aged two years in barrel, of which one-third is new. It could easily pass for a top-notch wine from Tuscany. Aromas and flavors of dried cherries, currants, spice box, herbs, and strawberry jam are present in this medium to full-bodied, ripe, nicely-textured Sangiovese. It should drink well for 5-6 years. Tel. (707) 255-5862