2013 Piastraia

Satta's 2013 Bolgheri Rosso Piastraia is superb. Black cherry, plum, spice, new leather, licorice and crème de cassis hit the palate as this exuberant, luscious wine shows off its personality. Even with all of its intensity, the 2013 retains gorgeous freshness, which is one of the signatures of the year. The creamy, voluptuous finish only adds to the wine's considerable appeal.

Now in its second year as a Bolgheri Superiore wine, the 2013 Bolgheri Superiore Piastraia shows a deep sense of inner elegance and feminine grace. I love the bouquet on this wine that has energy and intensity, but also feels lightweight and crisp at the same time. In fact, I would suggest serving it a degree or two lower than average serving temperature to bring the little details to light. Wild berry and dried cherry are followed by spice, pressed violets and wet earth. The tannins are very silky and long. Piastraia is equal parts Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese and Syrah aged in oak for 18 months. Oct 2016, www.robertparker.com