A pure and delicious expression of Merlot, the 2011 Poggio ai Merli (aged from 15 to 30 months in French oak) shows plush opulence in the form of ripe blackberry and cherry conserves. Deep and multifaceted shades of spice, leather, licorice and grilled herb add beautiful background tones. The mouthfeel is chewy and rich and there’s a touch of brown sugar sweetness as well. Poggio ai Merli is one of the great Italian Merlots, but this vintage is on the ripe side and I’d reduce the drinking window by a few years. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2022. When publisher Paolo Panerai set out to buy a wine estate in the late 1970s he had the great foresight and intuition to purchase Castellare di Castellina. He selected a property with a proven track record and enormous untapped potential. Over the decades and under his steady leadership, Castellare earned an unquestionable reputation for consistency and excellence. Winemaker Alessandro Cellai, with the estate since 1997, plays a pivotal role in guaranteeing that status. Castellare di Castellina is one of the great estates of Tuscany. Importer: Winebow; www.winebow.com