This small barrique-aged Vino Nobile from the irregular but interesting 1994 vintage offers a dark ruby color, and copious quantities of earthy, peppery, terroir characteristics to go along with some sweet dried cherry fruit. There is also hint of almonds that brings to my mind several of the finest Valpolicellos from northeastern Italy. The wine possesses excellent ripeness, a nicely-textured, elegant mouthfeel, good spice, and a silky personality. Made from 100% Prugnolo (a clone of Sangiovese), and bottled without fining or filtration after aging two years in barrel, it should be consumed over the next 5-6 years. A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Hohokus, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620