1997 is the debut vintage of this excellent winery's Kore, a proprietary blend of Syrah, Merlot, Carignan, and two local varietals, Cannonau and Bovale Sardo. Aged 12 months in both tank and barrique before being bottled unfiltered, this knock-out, opaque ruby/purple-colored wine possesses a rich, chocolatey, blackberry-scented nose and flavors, fabulous intensity, smoky, hickory, barbecue-like spice notes, low acidity, and a plump, flashy, luscious, full-bodied finish. It should drink well for 7-8 years. A Leonardo Locascio Selection, Winebow, Hohokus, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620