Loads of power but beautiful grace. Gorgeous licorice berry smoke dried herbs cherry and mineral aromas. Full-bodied with chewy yet very fine tannins. Long-lasting on the palate. Amazing quality for this wine. Greatest wine the Allegrinis have ever made. Best after 2003. 1500 cases made. –JS

The brilliant young still undeveloped 1000 case cuvee of 1997 La Poja is fashioned from a six-acre vineyard situated at a high elevation. Combining power and finesse in a rich concentrated style it offers aromas and flavors of minerals graphite black currants cherries and subtle wood. This dense ruby/purple-colored effort unfolds by increments on the palate always remaining noble measured and stylish. It will benefit from another 1-2 years of cellaring and last for 14-15 years. A Leonardo Locascio Selection Winebow Hohokus NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620