Il Drago e le 8 Colombe 2016

The 2016 Il Drago e le 8 Colombe (a blend of 60% Sangiovese, 20% Merlot and 20% Sagrantino) offers savory earthy sensations that come in part from the Sangiovese and in part from the Sagrantino grape. Those distinctive aromas are softened to a great extent by the Merlot, especially in a classic vintage such as this that allows for each separate variety to show its best side and uniqueness. The bouquet delivers some raw cherry and cassis, but you mostly get intense aromas of tobacco and spice. Pair it with an oven-broiled steak and potatoes. Drink date: 2019-2027. Score – 93. (Monica Larner, robertparker.com, Sept. 19, 2019)