2002 was only the second real vintage for Micheletti, a new producer in Bolgheri, but he and his winemaker Fabizio Moltard managed to cope with the trying weather and turn out a professional product. The 2002 Guardione, with good blackberry fruit and minerals, a firm structure, and attractive length, obviously does not have the ripeness and sweetness of the 2001 vintage, but the wine holds its own and that in itself is a good sign. Drink: 2006-2014.Importer: Ansonia Wines, Wilmington, DE; fax (801) 640-6181

A new producer with well-situated vineyards right next to those of Michele Satta, Micheletti debuts with a strong Cabernet-Merlot wine which very much reflects the character of its zone and the talents of winemaker Fabrizio Moltard. The 2001 Bolgheri Rosso Guardione, is impressively dark and saturated in color and the black currants, sweet herbs, and minerals of the nose are the classic notes of Bordeaux, but warmer and notably more alcoholic. Very solid in structure, with firm tannins to support the ripe fruit, light oak, and rosemary-thyme accents, the wine finishes fresh and long and with a light, attractive graininess to the texture which promises long life. Drink: 2006-2020. No known American importer.