The 1995 Colline di Sassi Sangiovese is one of the finest reds in the Pepi portfolio. Made from a blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon that is 100% barrique aged (California's version of a Tuscan vino da tavola), this wine exhibits a deep ruby color, and a plum, cranberry, and leathery-scented nose with hints of tobacco, spice, and vanillin. A complex, round example with excellent depth, and an undeniable Tuscan character, it should drink well for 5-7 years.Tel. (707) 944-2807; Fax (707) 944-5628

The two Italian-inspired red wines produced by Robert Pepi include a blend of Sangiovese and a small percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon called Colline di Sassi, and a more Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated wine, Due Baci. The 1994 Colline di Sassi is a blend of 85% Sangiovese and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon aged for 14 months in used French oak barrels. It offers up a moderately intense, cherry, earthy, new saddle leather-scented nose, followed by soft, ripe, medium-bodied flavors with an open-knit character, as well as good structure and wood influence. This spicy, richly fruity wine is ideal for drinking over the next 3-4 years. The Robert Pepi winery is another moderately-sized winery under the ownership of the Jess Jackson group known as Artisans and Estates. Of all the wineries under that umbrella organization, Robert Pepi is the only one largely dedicated to producing Italian-inspired wines. The exception is their Sauvignon Blanc. Tel. (707) 944-2807; Fax (707) 944-5628