1996 Avignonesi Occhio di Pernice Vin Santo di Montepulciano
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The 1996 Vin Santo Occhio di Pernice is made from 100% Prugnolo Gentile, as the local variety of Sangiovese is called in these parts. It too spent 10 years in 50-liter barrels prior to being bottled. The wine gives new meaning to adjectives such as "unctuous" and "opulent" which are simply inadequate to describe its sheer richness, concentration and volume. Dried figs, worn-in leather, baking spices, dark chocolate and espresso are just some of the nuances that can be found in this deeply-colored sweet wine. Occhio di Pernice remains one of Italy's most compelling wines, even if the 1996 doesn't quite reach the level of the finest vintages. 375 ml
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Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate
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The 1996 Vin Santo Occhio di Pernice is made from 100% Prugnolo Gentile, as the local variety of Sangiovese is called in these parts. It, too, spent 10 years in 50-liter barrels prior to being bottled. The wine gives new meaning to adjectives such as “unctuous” and “opulent” which are simply inadequate to describe its sheer richness, concentration and volume. Dried figs, worn-in leather, baking spices, dark chocolate and espresso are just some of the nuances that can be found in this deeply-colored sweet wine. Occhio di Pernice remains one of Italy’s most compelling wines, even if the 1996 doesn’t quite reach the level of the finest vintages. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2020. Avignonesi remains a solid producer in the Montepulciano and Cortona appelations, yet it is with their Vin Santos that the estate truly excels. These are some of the most unique and intense sweet wines being made anywhere, even if the 1996s don’t seem to possess the complexity of the very finest vintages. Importer: Dalla Terra, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-5405