Dark in color with intense aromas of mineral spice blackberry and coffee bean. Full-bodied with a wonderful core of ripe fruit and velvety tannins. Polished and very beautiful with a lovely texture. A fantastic effort from the Frescobaldis. Best after 2011. 2500 cases made. -JS

The 2006 Lamaione (Merlot) is impressive for the sheer depth and clarity of its fruit. With time in the glass graphite grilled herbs minerals and licorice emerge adding further complexity to the expressive vibrant blackberry and blueberry fruit. The wine's length freshness and structure are all first-class. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2021. </br>This large sprawling property is located southwest of the town of Montalcino and is one of the two Montalcino wineries owned by the Frescobaldi family. In recent years the wines seem to be taking on a greater degree of elegance and finesse rather than relying on sheer power and concentration as has often been the case in the past.-Antonio Galloni