The opaque purple-colored, smoky, oaky, creme de cassis-scented and flavored, seriously-endowed 1998 Cabernet Sauvignon offers good density, soft tannin, and plenty of appeal. It is a fairly-priced Cabernet to enjoy over the next decade. This is an exceptionally well-made offering from a region in southern Italy, not far from Rome's international airport. It is barrique aged. The wine is technically impressive, possessing a dense ruby/purple color as well as plenty of toasty new oak and sweet tannin. That being said, there is a certain international style to this wine. Tasted blind, I would not have the slightest idea whether it was from Italy, Australia, France, or America. Nevertheless, there is a lot to like. Importer: Vinifera Imports, Ronkonkoma, NY; tel. (516) 467-5907