The 2001 Cavaliere (100% Sangiovese) is another terrific effort from Satta. Made from the estate’s best fruit it sees 20 days’s maceration prior to being aged in barrique for 12 months. It presents the darker, brooding side of Sangiovese in its notes of scorched earth, tar, backward dark cherry fruit and well-integrated oak. Powerful and authoritative on the palate, the amply structured Cavaliere should offer rewarding drinking to age 20. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2021.
This is a beautiful set of wines from Michele Satta, one of the pioneers in making high-class wines in the region. Only the 2004 Bolgheri Rosso was disappointing. Satta’s vineyards are located in and around Bolgheri and Castagneto Carducci. Unlike many of his colleagues, Satta has chosen to emphasize Sangiovese, which he says remains his favorite varietal.
Importer: At press time Michele Satta was in the process of changing importers.