I usually don’t bother to report on the cork, but the cork in this bottle was stained a deep purple – almost black. I sniffed it and the intensity of its bouquet told me that this wine would be luscious. Herbal (sage & oregano) with a hint of rich umami solidity (almost like bacon). All from a cork! In a glass, the nose is less intense. Oregano and sage dominate. The “meatiness” of cork scent fades way back. Fruit forward without being syrupy — black cherries. Medium tannic structure, with hints of dark chocolate at the lower end of the spectrum balanced by a pleasing earthy minerality in the high notes. Unfortunately, the finish fades quickly. If this wine had a long finished, I’d probably give it at 9.8, but as it is a 9.5 will have to suffice.
I usually don’t bother to report on the cork, but the cork in this bottle was stained a deep purple – almost black. I sniffed it and the intensity of its bouquet told me that this wine would be luscious. Herbal (sage & oregano) with a hint of rich umami solidity (almost like bacon). All from a cork! In a glass, the nose is less intense. Oregano and sage dominate. The “meatiness” of cork scent fades way back. Fruit forward without being syrupy — black cherries. Medium tannic structure, with hints of dark chocolate at the lower end of the spectrum balanced by a pleasing earthy minerality in the high notes. Unfortunately, the finish fades quickly. If this wine had a long finished, I’d probably give it at 9.8, but as it is a 9.5 will have to suffice.
Jun 30th, 2026
Montalcino, Siena, Tuscany, Italy
