The 2006 Avi is a brooding wine layered with incense, French oak, grilled herbs, dark cherries, plums and earthiness, all of which come together in a powerful expression of Sangiovese. The intensity of the fruit matches the tannins all the way to the building, long finish. In 2006 Avi is impressive for both its sense of power and elegance. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2021. I was quite frankly blown away by the wines I tasted from San Patrignano this year. San Patrignano is a community built with a mission to help young people recovering from alcohol and drug dependencies return to productive lives. Given the estate’s noble goals, I am particularly happy to see that the wines are so strong this year. The biggest news at San Patrignano, though, is for the future. The estate is gradually moving away from the overtly commercial style of its first vintages. Beginning in 2009 the approach for the top wines is much more based on a non-interventionalist approach to the vineyards and cellar. San Patrignano has enlisted the services of no less than Gianfranco Soldera to lend a hand, so needless to say it will be fascinating to see what develops here.Importer: Palm Bay International, Boca Raton, FL; tel. (561) 362-9642