The 2008 Cabernet Franc comes across as relatively simple for this bottling. It shows decent fruit but little in the way of the pedigree I expect at this level. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2017. Judging by these wines Vignamaggio seems to have had a challenging time of it in 2008, which is quite understandable. The estate’s 2008s are solid efforts in a tough vintage.Importer: Bedford International, Larchmont, NY; tel. (914) 833-2725

The 2007 Cabernet Franc is a bit of a mystery. Two bottles I tasted were completely different; the first was big, rich and explosive, with tons of varietal character; the other was tight, clenched and unyielding. Both bottles showed exceptional length and a virile, masculine personality. I would be tempted to cellar this for a few years to see what develops. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2022. Importer: Bedford International, Larchmont, NY; tel. (914) 833-2725

The 2006 Cabernet Franc is marvelous in its ripe dark fruit, violets, graphite, espresso, Venezuelan bittersweet chocolate and minerals. The interplay between fruit and structure here is simply magnificent, while the wine’s focus and crystalline purity are something to behold. This beautifully sculpted, powerful Cabernet Franc captures plenty of varietal expression married to an unmistakable sense of Tuscany. It is a magnificent effort from Vignamaggio. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2026. Importer: Bedford International, Larchmont, NY; tel. (914) 833-2725

The 2005 Cabernet Franc is an unusual wine in that it is made from old vines the estate accidentally found mixed in with its Sangiovese plantings across a variety of vineyards. The wine possesses terrific density and richness owing to the old age of the vines, along with a distinct sense of Tuscan structure. Roasted coffee beans and spices emerge, lending extra dimensions to the dark fruit. A warm, resonating finish rounds out this exciting wine. Here the oak is used with great mastery, and the wine’s balance is superb. I have to say I am very curious to taste this wine in a more important vintage. It is a terrific effort. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2020.Importer: Bedford International, Larchmont, NY; tel. (914) 833-2725