2007 Montessu

The 2007 Isola dei Nuraghi Montessu is a fabulous bottle of wine, not to mention a steal for the money. A blend of 60% Carignano and 10% each Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and10% Merlot, the Montessu offers up smoke, tar, licorice, dark fruit, menthol and rosemary, showing marvelous concentration and balance. This could use another year or so in bottle, but it is already incredibly delicious. This is the first wine I have tasted from Agricola Punica, a new project that combines the considerable talents of Tenuta San Guido proprietor Sebastiano Rosa, oenologist Giacomo Tachis and noted Sardinian producer Santadi – how’s that for an all-star team? Anticipated maturity: 2011-2017. Importer: Kobrand Corp., Purchase, NY; tel. (914) 253-7756

Quite an extraordinary perfume of juniper, angelica and crushed rose petals. Almost Gewurz-like! Smoky charcoal tannins framing bright, red plum fruit and a touch of ripe tomato, lingering top notes of roses. So unusual. Fresh. It takes me straight into a garden in the very early morning light. (TC)