2001 San Giusto a Rentennano, Toscana, La Ricolma Merlot

The 2001 La Ricolma is dense, powerful and explosive. Super-ripe black cherry fruit, chocolate, leather, spice and menthol all open up in the glass. The 2001 has quite a bit of richness, but also a certain rusticity in the tannins that is impossible to escape. There is little question the 2001 belongs to a previous era at San Giusto, a time when the fruit was picked almost a month earlier than is the case today.

The 2001 Ricolma, the estate’s Merlot, features ample plum and raisin fruit and mocha, a satiny texture, and a warm, enveloping finish. In terms of finesse, it is first-rate, but here as well, the 1997 and 1999 had an extra dimension of volume and richness. Drink: 2001-2018. Importer: A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700, and Estate Wines, Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411

The 2001 Ricolma, the estate’s Merlot, features ample plum and raisin fruit and mocha, a satiny texture, and a warm, enveloping finish. In terms of finesse, it is first-rate, but here as well, the 1997 and 1999 had an extra dimension of volume and richness. Drink: 2001-2018.

A very good amount of plum, berry and cherry character. Medium, with silky tannins and a fruity finish. Slightly tart and lean but some good flavors. Merlot. Best after 2004. 264 cases made.