This inky blend of Pallagrello Nero and Casavecchia (two of Italy’s oldest grape varieties) opens with opulent aromas of chocolate, exotic spice, dark fruit, cola and cinnamon. It is smooth and rich on the palate but the wine also imparts a high dose of sweetness and succulence that would work well next to rare beef.——M.L.(6/1/2011)—— 93