Saturated purple-black ruby. Complex, intense nose of dark fruits, pepper and sage. There is uncommon richness on the palate expressive of stewed prunes, bitter-sweet chocolate and candied fruit. Somewhat unevolved today, with palate-gripping tannins and a notable acid presence, it finishes very long, with a strong dose of minerality. (I should add that a barrel sample of the 2001 Masseto revealed more freshness and sweetness and a greater sense of balance than either of the preceding vintages, even though it maintains the typically lush and imposing structure for which this single-vineyard merlot is noted. My preliminary rating for the 2001 was 93+.) (Robert Mondavi Imports, Napa, CA)

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The all-Merlot 2000 Masseto, warm, spicy, and very ripe in aroma, is broad and enveloping on the palate, lush, silky, and, again, rather ready, though the force and length on the finish suggest that there are easily a dozen years of life ahead of it.

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Pretty blackberry, cherry and licorice aromas follow through to a full-bodied palate, with velvety tannins and a smoke-, berry- and chocolate-flavored finish. A pretty wine. This is soft and round compared with my tastings from last year.--Masseto non-blind vertical. 2,500 cases made.

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio