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Tasting notes
The 1991 Sammarco has plenty of depth, even if the acidity peeks out a bit and the tannins are a touch angular. All things considered, the 1991 has aged well. Red cherry, pomegranate, tobacco and floral notes all get an extra kick of acidity on the finish. Next to the best vintages, the 1991 is a bit compact, but it is quite attractive just the same. Sadly, 1991 is also the year Alceo di Napoli passed away.
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Robert Parker
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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The cedary, lead pencil, spicy-scented, medium-bodied 1991 Sammarco is the luxury cuvee of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon made by the well-known Chianti producer of the same name. I have had some extraordinary bottles of Sammarco (i.e., 1982, 1983, 1985, and 1990). The 1991, while good, is low-key and compact. The wine reveals good density and richness, plenty of tannin, and fine underlying acidity, but the finish is abrupt and astringent. It is a candidate for 8-10 more years of aging, but I do not see it ever evolving into an exciting wine. This has always been one of my favorite Tuscan producers. I began purchasing their wines in 1983, and have continued to latch on to a few bottles from the better years. Sadly, as with many of the finest wines, prices have gone up significantly. Importer: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200