The 2007 Pecorino Casale Vecchio reveals notable richness in its soft-textured expression of ripe peaches, flowers and minerals. A generous, caressing white, it possesses excellent persistence, clarity and fine overall balance. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2009. These new releases from Farnese offer exceptional quality for the money. The wines are clean, correct and delicious, as long as the estate doesn’t stray too far from its core strength of making simple, well-made wines. Farnese offers two ranges in the value category, the first of these is a line of simple, varietal wines, while the Casale Vecchio series consists of special selections. Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900

This fresh and buoyant Pecorino from Central Italy delivers immediate and simple aromas of stone fruit with some papaya and pineapple. It tastes crisp and vibrant and has the natural structure to pair with ham or cold cuts.——M.L.(5/1/2009)—— 87