2001 Do Ut Des

The 2001 Do Ut Des, a selection of the best Sangiovese, Cabernet, and Merlot grapes, though equally drinkable, is a horse of a different color. Intense, sweet, and spicy on the nose, with rich raspberry and cassis fruit, its powerful flavors, ample texture, and solid, silky tannins are sheer and unambiguous pleasure on the palate. Deceptively approachable, it will easily last another decade. Italy’s foxiest consulting oenologist? Beyond a shadow of a doubt, it’s Gioia Cresti, who is also in charge of the winemaking at her family’s estate just north of Siena and can demonstrate that her talents in the cellar are equal to her formidable good looks. Importer: Vinifera Imports, Ronkonkoma, NY; tel. (631) 467-5907