| 2007-08-12 17:24 |
WA: The 2004 Dedicato a Walter, (100% Cabernet Franc), is a drop-dead gorgeous effort. A dark glossy ruby, it presents an exotic array of toasted oak, mint, spice, chocolate, coffee bean and sweet dark fruit notes. Plump and expressive on the palate, it offers superb length as well as exquisite overall balance and a resonating note of warmth on the finish. Ideally a few years of cellaring are warranted although this wine is drinking very well today. Made from a vineyard once leased by nearby Tenuta dell’Ornellaia and aged in 100% new oak for 18 months, it is one of the most exciting new wines I tasted. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2019. Poggio al Tesoro is a new winery in Bolgheri co-owned by importer Leonardo LoCascio and the Allegrini family. Winemaking is overseen by consulting oenologist Alberto Antonini and these are its first releases. The estate works with densely planted vineyards and low yields to produce deeply flavored wines. In particular, readers who enjoy Cabernet Franc will not want to miss the superb 2004 Dedicato a Walter. Poggio al Tesoro will be a fascinating property to watch as the wines acquire age. Importer: Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620; fax (201) 445-9868. |