Tenuta San Guido’s 2008 Guidalberto is a very pretty wine laced with mineral-infused dark fruit. This is a decidedly smaller scaled, lithe Guidalberto that impresses for its overall balance and finesse. The structure of the 2006 and the exuberance of the 2007 are missing, but the 2008 offers superb drinkability and pleasure today and over the next few years. Dried flowers, licorice and new leather add the final nuances of complexity on the finish. The 2008 Guidalberto is Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Most of the fruit comes from vineyards that are separate from those used for Sassicaia, although Guidalberto always includes some barrels that don’t make it into the top wine. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2015. Importer: Kobrand Corp., Purchase, NY; tel. (914) 253-7756

Balanced, with blackberry, spice and mineral aromas lead to a medium body in this balanced red, with well-integrated tannins and a fresh finish. Best after 2011. 15,000 cases made. -JS

Guidalberto (a 60-40 blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot) opens with dense, inky concentration and fresh tones of forest fruit and wild blackberry. The wine is bright and silky with a fresh cherry fade: Pair it with spezzatino di manzo (classic beef stew).——M.L.(12/15/2010)—— 91