A succulent, chewy Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon blend with a pretty ruby color and intense aromas of coffee, tar, leather and toasted wood. The tannins are still a bit raw and beg for hearty meat. Tightly packed cherry and blackberry linger over a long finish. Castello Banfi performs the extraordinary vintage after vintage: It’s almost a one million case per year winery and it continues to offer excellent quality on its lowest priced products. ——M.L.(11/15/2005)—— 87