The 2008 Gabriele is 100% Merlot. Dark red cherries, mint, licorice, pine and sweet spices are some of the many nuances that are woven together in this tasty, medium-bodied wine. The 2008 is all about understatement and subtlety. First and foremost, it is a wine that impresses for its overall sense of harmony. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2018. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including: de Grazia Imports; tel. (417) 732-4200; Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300; Estate Wines Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411; Robert Houde Wines, Elk Grove Village, IL; tel. (847) 430-3887

A compelling array of plums, prunes, black cherries, new leather, violets and spices flow from the estate’s 2007 Gabriele, a pure Merlot. Soft and engaging through to the finish, the Gabriele reveals superb balance and plenty of pedigree, with the Merlot conveying plenty of varietal character although with a distinctly Tuscan accent. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2020. 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