2009 Sauvignon Selezione

Boasting a beautiful, artistic and colorful label that stands in contrast to the more sober design of Edi Kante's other wines, the 2009 Sauvignon is its own special project. On my submission form, it is referred to as a Riserva or a special Selezione, although that wording does not appear on the label. The wine is elaborate and sophisticated with tangy acidity that has served the wine well over the years. In the mouth, the wine is compact and medium in persistence.

The 2009 Sauvignon is another wine that overachieves. It, too, boasts gorgeous textural depth and richness (in relative terms for the Carso), with expressive aromatics, beautifully delineated fruit and no hard edges. In other words, the balance is utterly impeccable. The long, textured finish is laced with sage, white flowers and slate. Kante's Sauvignons elevate the variety to levels rarely seen in Italy. In 2009 the Sauvignon is the most compelling of Kante's entry-level whites.

The 2009 Sauvignon is another wine that overachieves. It, too, boasts gorgeous textural depth and richness (in relative terms for the Carso), with expressive aromatics, beautifully delineated fruit and no hard edges. In other words, the balance is utterly impeccable. The long, textured finish is laced with sage, white flowers and slate. Kante’s Sauvignons elevate the variety to levels rarely seen in Italy. In 2009 the Sauvignon is the most compelling of Kante’s entry-level whites. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019. What can I say about the wines I tasted at Kante? Words are pretty superfluous when confronted with this stunning overall level of quality. Edi Kante’s wines are at once intensely varietal yet also imbued with the deepest sense of the Carso, the rocky, hillside stretch of mountains where these vineyards lie. Think of Kante as Italy’s Coche-Dury. Importer: Domaine Select, New York, NY; tel. (212) 279-0799