The 2006 Sangiovese-Merlot-Cabernet Sauvignon offers up red cherries, game, oak and spices in a floral, mid-weight style. The wine shows good balance although some hard edges remain. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2011. Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900

The 2005 Supremus is the first wine made by Monte Antico that is meant to be more serious in nature. This full-bodied red flows with masses of super-ripe red fruit and sweet scents of French oak. The Supremus is made in a richer, more concentrated style than the Monte Antico. Judging by this first release the wine is a work in progress, but it will be very interesting to see how this project develops over the coming years. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2013. Monte Antico, the private-label wine bottled by oenologist Franco Bernabei for importer Neil Empson, has been one of Tuscany’s most consistent value-priced reds for years Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900

Coffee and chocolate open the nose of this Tuscan blend of Sangiovese and 15% Merlot. The wine is inky and well concentrated with thick, chewy density and plump cherry notes. It represents a straightforward combination of fruit and spice and would pair with most meat and pasta dishes. ——M.L.(3/1/2010)—— 89