Casale del Giglio’s 2004 Mater Matuta is one of most interesting wines I tasted from Lazio this year. This blend of 85% Syrah and 15% Petit Verdot reveals a perfumed, layered profile, with gorgeous inner sweetness in its dark fruit, violets, scorched earth, herbs and French oak. The ripe, silky tannins frame the fruit beautifully and give the wine its sense of finesse. This sleek, sumptuous wine should be even better in another year or two. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2019. Importer: Solair Selection, New York, NY; tel. (646) 244-4922