The 1999 La Grola is aged in both small barrels and the bigger foudres. A saturated dense purple color is accompanied by sumptuous aromas of graphite, blackberries, black currants, plums, and tar. A seamless entry on the palate is followed by a full-bodied, opulently-textured effort with low acidity, great extraction, and sweet, concentrated fruit. This terrific, sexy, full throttle red possesses both power and elegance. Drink it over the next 10-12 years. A Leonardo Locascio Selection, Winebow, Hohokus, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620

Dark in the glass, with deep, inky aromas that carry hints of toast, wet earth and smoked meat. The palate bursts with healthy, ripe plum and black cherry, while the easygoing finish is full of coffee and rusticity. Very smoothand solid; a good wine with guaranteed mass appeal. ——W.E.(5/1/2003)—— 88