2000 Vitiano

From the family estate of renowned oenologist, Riccardo Cotarella, this may be the most unbelievable value in the marketplace. A blend of equal parts Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Sangiovese, aged four months in new French oak, and bottled with neither fining nor filtration, this spectacular effort offers up a sweet nose of blackberries, cassis, licorice, and subtle toast scents. Amazingly concentrated, full-bodied, seamless, and beautifully pure, this spectacular wine will drink well for 3-4 years. Mouthfilling and harmonious, it is a fabulous achievement that must be tasted to be believed. Even better, there are 45,000 cases. Bravo! Importer: A Leonardo LoCascio Selection, Winebow Inc., Hohokus, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620