The 2009 Il Bruciato is a gorgeous entry-level red from Antinori’s Bolgheri property. Black cherries, espresso, grilled herbs, crushed rocks and spices are some of the notes that emerge from this generous, expressive wine. Il Bruciato is Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah. A clean, saline finish makes it impossible to resist a second taste. This shows tons of regional character, not to mention terrific personality. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2017. Antinori seems to do everything well these days, from churning out millions of bottles of supermarket wines all the way to turning out superb versions of their many flagship bottlings. This is another impressive set of new releases with a number of highlights. Over the years oenologist Renzo Cotarella has moved away from the super-late harvests of the late 1990s/early 2000s in favor of picking slightly earlier, a decision that has paid off handsomely, especially over the last few years. Antinori’s 2008s, from a vintage that is quite inconsistent across the board, are superb. I remember spending a few days near the estate’s Tignanello and Badia a Passignano estates in mid-August 2008. The days were very hot, but the nights were so cool that a sweater or light jacket was a necessity Importer: Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, Woodinville, WA, tel. (425) 415-3738

Il Bruciato (an expression of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and other varieties) shows pulpy fruit tones with ripe aromas of cherry, raspberry. leather and tobacco. The wine is smooth and soft with a spicy, fruity texture. ——M.L.(2/1/2012)—— 89