The cedary, lead pencil, spicy-scented, medium-bodied 1991 Sammarco is the luxury cuvee of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon made by the well-known Chianti producer of the same name. I have had some extraordinary bottles of Sammarco (i.e., 1982, 1983, 1985, and 1990). The 1991, while good, is low-key and compact. The wine reveals good density and richness, plenty of tannin, and fine underlying acidity, but the finish is abrupt and astringent. It is a candidate for 8-10 more years of aging, but I do not see it ever evolving into an exciting wine. This has always been one of my favorite Tuscan producers. I began purchasing their wines in 1983, and have continued to latch on to a few bottles from the better years. Sadly, as with many of the finest wines, prices have gone up significantly.Importer: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200

Silky and fine with mineral and berry elements in the nose and palate. Medium-bodied, medium tannins, medium finish. Not as great as the '90 but still delicious. 2,500 cases made.??–null??Region: Italy / Vino da Tavola-Tuscany Select to Add