Castello dei Rampolla Sammarco 2019

This is a classic beauty. The 2019 d'Alceo, made with 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Petit Verdot, is dark and enriched, but magically, it is never heavy or bulky. It carries its weight with feather-like grace backed by dry tannins and lovely fruit layering. There is blackcurrant, kirsch, blackberry liqueur, exotic spice, black rose and crushed stone. That mineral note stands out like a filigree of shiny silver stitched through the wine's rich, velvety texture. Production is 13,749 bottles and 200 magnums.

Currants and black berries with citrus undertones as well as flowers. Medium-bodied with medium velvety tannins and a freshness and brightness. Lots of energy. Cabernet sauvignon, sangiovese and merlot. Drinkable now but better in three or four years.

Clear ruby with purple shimmer, brightening on the rim. Initially somewhat cloudy on the nose, clarifies with aeration, then develops fine notes of raspberry, dark currant, some cedar wood. Hearty, gripping tannin characterises the wine on the palate, still very young, but has a lot of ageing potential; put it away for a few years.