Tasting Notes - Italy, IGT

2005 Cepparello, Isole e Olena

100% Sangiovese, this is made in more of an international style; it has quite rich ripe fruit, with lots of new, French vanilla oak that needs some time to develop its full range of flavours. It is very well made, with no rough edges, but I have to say I'm not a big fan of this style, there just aren't enough distinguishing characteristics in it for my liking, I prefer wines from this area to be made in a more traditional style, and I certainly wouldn't give this wine the 95 score that the WA does.

2006 Antinori, Tenuta Guado al Tasso, Il Bruciato, Bolgheri

Dark ruby colour, dark fruit (cherry, blackcurrant), violets and oak on the nose; lots of dark fruit, some vanilla and a hint of minerality on the palate. Medium+ body, medium finish, balanced acidity and silky tannins. Improved with time in decanter. Bold fruit gives impression of an international style, but subtle oak and minerality keep it in balance in an old world style. Needs food (strip steak). Ok, but not great - nothing to distinguish it from the crowd. 50% CS, 30% M, 20% S. (03/10)