A blend of mostly Syrah with a smaller component of Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2011 Poggio Querciolo is a very interesting wine with a unique set of aromatic characteristics. There’s a huge cola presence here with balsam herb and dried blueberry and menthol shadings at the back. Licorice and sweet spice are also fitted into the ensemble. Poggio Querciolo feels dense and structured on the palate with some ripe, chewy fruit on the finish.

The 2010 Poggio Querciolo (85% Syrah with Cabernet Sauvignon, all aged 12 months in barrique) is another massive red wine. Dark fruit layers of blackberry jam and dried prune are woven together with vibrant nuances of exotic spice and pipe tobacco. It shows smooth softness with loads of mocha and dark chocolate on the finish. You could open it now or wait longer. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2020. Fattoria Casa di Terra is an under-the-radar estate (with 24 hectares of vine) that should gain new visibility now that its state-of-the-art winery has been completed. In fact, proprietors Giuliano and Gessica Frollani are ready to inaugurate the new structure with fruit from the 2013 vintage. Importer: Superior Wine Selections; www.superiorwineselections.com