I'm no fan of California Sangiovese but Altamura makes me a believer in what can be achieved. Aged 30 months in 70% new oak from their own vineyard planted between 700 and 1000-feet above sea level their 2008 Sangiovese has a dark plum/garnet color and a gorgeously sweet nose of new saddle leather strawberry jam cherries menthol and spice. The complex aromatics are followed by a surprisingly opulent full-flavored beautifully textured and concentrated wine that literally has to be tasted to be believed. If 95% of California Sangiovese producers had emulated this style this grape would have been far more acceptable to consumers. Drink it over the next 4-5 years.

A close kin to a Chianti from a ripe year with appealing tart plum and ripe cherry fruit showing accents of smoky rosemary and spice. The flavors are supple and rich with just enough acidity to keep this lively. Drink now through 2015.-TF