2015 Marchesi Antinori Tenuta Guado al Tasso Cont' Ugo Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy (750 ml)

TASTING NOTES:

A fresh, plump and alluring red, this features plenty of black cherry, plum, violet, cedar and earth flavors, with dusty tannins providing grip. Eases into a long, fruit- and tobacco-filled finish. Merlot. Best from 2019 through 2028.

-Wine Spectator, 93 pts.

The 2015 Cont'Ugo, 100% Merlot, from the Antinori family's Guado al Tasso property, captures all the radiance and natural intensity of the year. Sweet red cherry, pomegranate, spice and floral notes abound. What is most surprising about the 2015 is the level of aromatic freshness that Antinori has preserved.

-Vinous, 93 pts.

This is a pure merlot from a special parcel that shows wonderful finesse and depth. Medium body, ultra-fine tannins and a long and polished finish. A beauty. Drink now or hold for 2019.

-Robert Parker, 92 pts.

This Merlot opens with aromas of black plum, roasted coffee bean, cedar and spice. The firm palate delivers flavors of blackberry jam, licorice, clove and mocha alongside fine-grained tannins. Drink 2020– 2025.

-Wine Enthusiast, 92 pts.