Redigaffi, Tua Rita 2012

The 2012 Redigaffi jumps from the glass with explosive dark blue/blackish fruit. Rich, voluptuous and impeccably textured in the glass, the 2012 boasts massive depth and concentration, yet retains tons of freshness. Silky tannins round out a finish laced with melted road tar, herbs and leather. For such a big wine, the Redigaffi is remarkably complex and nuanced. The 2012 was aged in 100% new, thick-staved Darnajou barrels, which are seldom seen in Italy but widely used throughout Napa Valley and elsewhere. In some recent vintages I have slightly preferred the Syrah over the Redigaffi, but in 2012 the wines are both fabulous. Simply put, the 2012 Redigaffi is a stunner. Drink 2016-2027.

Compelling aromas of chili pepper, nuts, beeswax and dark fruits with dried strawberries. Hints of black olives and meat. Full body with extremely thick, silky tannins and a long, flavorful finish. This is layered and so structured, with fabulous length and density. Savory. Chocolate powder at the end. This needs at least three or four years of bottle age. A triumph for the vintage. Pure merlot.

This was the first vintage that Luca D'Attoma was completely responsible for after his return and it is described by the winemaking team as a 'classic growing season conditioned by bright sunshine.' The 2012 Redigaffi has aromas of cream, sweet oak-spice and vanilla, Mediterranean herbs and flowers, and no overt toastiness as in many earlier vintages. There's a lovely concentration and weight on the palate, with plenty of black fruits and a beautiful texture. It has firm, upright tannins, robust but refined in nature. Drink 2022-2040.