The estate's 2007 Armaleo is 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc aged in French oak barrels. It is a big, ripe wine loaded with dark fruit, espresso, herbs and spices, but the overall balance suffers from excessive oakiness. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2017.A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including: de Grazia Imports; tel. (417) 732-4200; Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; (516) 677-9300, Estate Wines Ltd., San Rafael CA; (415) 492-9411, Robert Houde Wines, Bensenville IL; (630) 422-1119

The 2006 Armaleo (95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc) is a plump, juicy red. Dark fruit, grilled herbs, spices and new leather emerge in the glass as this generous wine shows off its class. The Armaleo loses a touch of intensity on the finish, but none of its class. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2016. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including: de Grazia Imports; tel. (417) 732-4200; Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; (516) 677-9300, Estate Wines Ltd., San Rafael CA; (415) 492-9411, Giuliana Imports, Boulder CO; (303) 547-6343, Robert Houde Wines, Bensenville IL; (630) 422-1119

Palazzone’s 2005 Armaleo (95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc) is not particularly varietal in its expression but it does offer plenty of black cherries, mint and sweet toasted oak. This full-bodied, plump wine offers excellent persistence on the palate in a generous style. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2018.A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700, and Estate Wines, Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411