2011 Giuseppe Quintarelli Alzero

The 2011 Alzero Cabernet is a bit backward today, displaying mocha-infused black and red currants offset by hints of sour citrus and animal musk, plus a dusty floral and incense component that is not quite ready to come into the foreground. It’s velvety in feel yet medium in body, showing tart wild berries and exotic inner spices, all framed by a core of vibrant acidity. For all of its primary intensity, the 2011 maintains balance, leaving a glycerol-like coating of tart cherry and blackberry under an air of tobacco and sweet herbs. There’s a lot of immediate pleasure to be found within the 2011, but it should also excel over medium-term cellaring. With grapes dried through appassimento, the Alzero is a blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Cabernet Franc and 20% Merlot.