A blend of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon and 34% Merlot, Maculan's outstanding 1999 Fratta is a dead-ringer for a top-class Bordeaux. Made from extremely low yields of 1.5 tons of fruit per acre, it offers copious new oak notes, superb concentration, and high alcohol (14.5%). This boldly-styled, full-bodied, concentrated, tannic blockbuster requires 3-5 years of cellaring, and should age nicely for 15-16 years. A Leonardo Locascio Selection, Winebow, Hohokus, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620

Clearly this 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot blend is designed to appeal to the international market, meaning it’s extracted, rich, supple and at 14.5%, rather high in alcohol (for a Veneto wine). That said, it is truly luscious and delicious, with black fruit pouring out of the glass. Accents of oak, tobacco and vanilla make it all the more friendly. Cellar Selection.——W.E.(5/1/2003)—— 91