The 2003 Cortona Syrah Bramasole is a knock-out effort. Inky in color, it opens with captivating aromas of super-ripe blueberries, cinnamon, minerals and tar followed by layers of expressive, opulent jammy fruit that open up in the glass. It shows superb length on the palate and a lingering note of sweetness on the finish, even if the tannins are slightly drying on the back end. Another year or two in the bottle should help bring the wine into better balance. Its ample, seductive personality is sure to win it many fans. Syrah thrives in the hot, arid conditions the region saw in 2003 and Bramasole Syrah captures a beautiful expression of varietal and terroir. It is a terrific effort from Antinori. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2018. La Braccesca is the Montepulciano property of the Antinori family. I was very impressed with the wines I tasted from the estate. “At La Braccesca we are aiming for a fresher, fruit-driven style that reflects varietal character,” says oenologist Renzo Cotarella. “Fermentations are generally shorter and unlike our other estates, we use a percentage of American oak to give the wines an extra dimension of sweetness and spiciness.” Importer: Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, Woodinville, WA, tel. (425) 415-3738