The 2006 Montepulciano is always one of Hans’s best Italian varietals. This has a well defined, very pure nose of blackberry, maraschino cherry and a touch of Doris plum. Nice lift from the glass. The palate is well balanced with firm but fully ripe tannins, lovely minerally black fruit with touches of plum and blackberry on the finish. Beautifully crafted, this is a lovely wine that should age nicely over 3-4 years. N.B. Please note that these wines are sold as “Hans Family Estate” in all countries except Australia and New Zealand where it goes under the name of “Hans Herzog Estate.” If you seek enlightenment upon New Zealand’s take on international grape varieties then an afternoon with Swiss-born Hanz Herzog should quench your thirst. These are fascinating wines produced in small quantities and although they can be “hit and miss” affairs, the hits are well worth seeking out and kudos to someone who is thinking ‘outside the box’. After all, how do you know that Zweigelt will not work in Marlborough unless you actually cultivate and bottle it? Note that these wines will simply be branded “Hans” in the USA.Importer: Bond Imports, Inc., Littleton, CO; tel. (303) 948-3712; fax (866) 801-3618; www.winehouse.com