2011 Balifico

Volpaia's 2011 Balifico is open, expressive and generous, with plenty of textural depth, but less in the way of pedigree. Sweet red cherry, pomegranate, menthol, licorice and herb nuances open up nicely in the glass. The Balifico is a pretty wine, but I am not sure I see the rationale of adding Cabernet Sauvignon to Sangiovese, when the Sangiovese in these sites is so distinctive.