The 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Olmaia makes a statement, wafting up from the glass rich and darkly floral. Here I’m finding blackberries, plums, grilled sage and rosemary, all tinged with crushed stone and spice. It’s silky in texture, so elegant and pleasing, with a cool-toned display of dark red and black currants and building minerality. This tapers off incredibly long, impeccably structured and classic to the core, as echoes of licorice resonate throughout. What a glorious and mature Tuscan Cabernet. -- Eric Guido

The 2001 Olmaia is assuredly better than the 2000 but I am convinced that the house could do more with this wine. Deeper and more sustained in its ruby color the black fruit minerals and herbs are notably fresher in aroma and the palate is rounder firmer and more balanced. Drink: 2005-2014.