The 2016 Brentino is an IGT blend of equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is executed in an accessible and easy-drinking style with black fruit aromas followed by sour cherry, blue flower and grilled herb. The mouthfeel shows mid-weight texture with good freshness on the close, a good match for a burger with blue cheese. The grapes are fermented in stainless steel with frequent punch-downs and eight days of skin maceration. Half of the wine ages in steel for one year, and the other half goes into neural barrique. An ample 150,000 bottles were made.

Representing great value at a bargain price, the 2012 Brentino is a sure bet, especially if you keep a couple of extra bottles around the house for spontaneous drinking occasions. The blend is 45% Cabernet Sauvignon and 55% Merlot and the Merlot personality comes out stronger in 2012. The wine is soft and yielding with bright cherries and blackberries followed by measured spice, leather and grilled herbs. Only half the wine is aged in oak, and the barriques used are neutral. In reference to Italian entry-level wines, it really does't get much better than Brentino.

The 2009 Brentino, 55% Merlot/45% Cabernet Sauvignon is a great introduction to Fausto Maculan’s wines, not to mention the 2009 is flat-out striking. Dark cherries, plums, tobacco and sweet spices are just some of the notes that emerge from this beautifully delineated, supple wine. Floral notes add freshness and lift on the finish. The 2009 is a stunning wine for the money. Anticipated maturity:2012-2019. This is another strong set of wines from Fausto Maculan, one of the leading lights in Veneto. My only real criticism is that the top reds are being released far too early for wines of such pedigree. These wines rank among the very best being made anywhere, but it is not surprising they remain relatively unknown considering they arrive in the marketplace too young to be fully appreciated. Sadly, there is no new release of the flagship Acininobili, but there are plenty of other great choices in this strong line-up. A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620

Maculan's 2008 Brentino is 55% Merlot and 45% Cabernet Sauvignon aged partly in tank and partly in oak. There is plenty of beautifully articulated dark fruit, along with suggestions of violets, leather and licorice. The Brentino is an elegant, graceful red perfect for enjoying over the next few years. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2015. Fausto Maculan is one of Veneto's most inspired producers. Maculan's higher-end wines are typically among the finest in the region. These entry-level offerings deliver plenty of bang for the buck. A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620