The 2009 Carignano del Sulcis Terre Rare Riserva shows extra broad shoulders and hefty muscular mass. It opens to a dark garnet color and intense aromas of dried cherry, cassis, licorice, tilled earth, crushed mineral and grilled rosemary. Those elegant tertiary notes of spice and balsam herb are already beginning to show. The mouthfeel is viscous and on the heavy side with ripe fruit and spice. The wine should hold steady for at least three more years.

Savory and sophisticated aromas of cured meat, leather, dried fruit and prune are elegant and nicely evolved. There’s a bright touch of bitter almond on the finish. — (7/1/2012) —88

Vibrant red cherry tones are expertly woven within toasted nut and vanilla to produce a wine with character that ultimately seems younger than it is. You’ll taste red currant berry, pomegranate and toasted wood flavors and enjoy its refreshing crispness.——M.L.(2/1/2008)—— 89