The 2009 Monte Antico, composed of 85% Sangiovese, 10% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon that matured in oak for 12 months, has pleasing aromas of black cherry, wood and smoke on the nose and blackberry, black cherry, oak, coconut and vanilla on the palate. It is a medium to full bodied, extra-dry, fruity wine; with good acidity, refined tannins (decant for 30 min) and a long finish. This is a food friendly and sipping wine; drink 2014-2017+ (screw cap enclosure). My impression: NICE to BEAUTIFUL, 89 pts – recommended for its quality. Tasted in Jul/14.

See my wine recommendations readily available at the LCBO here:

http://grapeselections.com/grapeselections

or here @

http://www.winealign.com/wino/dantrcka/recommended-wines-you-can-still-buy

A decent Tuscan red, at a very appealing price. Pouring ruby-garnet, the nose is filled with dark cherry, plum, cured meat, black licorice, and sundried black olive. Dry, grippy tannins on the palate. Flavours of dark fruits, spice and meat offer rustic charm with vibrant acidity to give lift. Good value.

Medium to medium+ ruby to garnet in colour with an intense nose.

A simple easy drinking Italian wine that still retains some ruggedness.

Positives: Cedar, plum, dark & sour cherry, sage, red licorice & leather. Medium to medium+ body and tannins, with good acidity and an average length.

Negatives: Nose is better than the taste.

Drink now on or over the next 2 years on its own or pair it with pizza.

Tasted: 19 May 13

Score: 8.5/10, Value: 8.5+/10 Total: 17+/20

Out of 5 stars, I rated this wine: 3.5

Thanks to Carol Ann, from WineAlign, for the opportunity to taste this.

Soft, approachable mostly Sangiovese red from Tuscany. Fairly simple, easy going with just enough regional character to keep it from being completely forgettable. Oak shows in some mocha and hints of sweetness. Good but nothing special and my next $16 will go elsewhere. Tasted July 2014/