The 2005 Bolgheri Rosso (40% Merlot, 30% Sangiovese, and 30% Cabernet Franc) is a fresh, vibrant wine loaded with sweet red fruit. Made in a generous style for the vintage, this engaging red offers excellent drinking and a winning personality. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2011.Le Macchiole releases its wines later than most estates on the Tuscan coast, so readers will find the 2004s in the market, while the 2005s are due to arrive this Fall. Proprietor Cinzia Merli and long-time oenologist Luca D-Attoma have turned out a glorious set of 2004s. The 2005 vintage proved to be much more challenging as the damp, fresh growing season made it hard to achieve full ripeness. These are pretty wines, but they aren't quite at the level of the estate's finest efforts.Importer: Domaine Select, New York, NY; tel. (212) 279-0799

This Merlot, Sangiovese and Cabernet Franc blend lays on intense aromas of blackberry, black currant, creamy melted chocolate, buoyant cinnamon accents and beautiful, plush renderings of spice and wood. Together, these elements achieve wonderful harmony and elevate this wine in terms of aromatic intensity. It’s ready to drink now.——M.L.(4/1/2008)—— 91