| Wine Notes: | "Readers looking for an Italian version of Chateauneuf du Pape should check out the 2004 Costera. Made from the Sardinian clone of Grenache called Cannonau, Carignan and Bovale Sardo, it is a chunky, robust, meaty effort revealing scents of garrigue, kirsch liqueur, white chocolate, pepper and spice. Full-bodied, with terrific fruit as well as loads of personality, it should be enjoyed over the next several years." Made from 90% Cannonau, 5% Carignano and 5% Bovale Sardo grown in the Costera vineyard. The wine is aged in French barriques for 6-8 months prior to bottling. The intense, ruby red color tends toward orange with age. The full bouquet displays typical varietal character. Warm and full bodied on the palate with excellent texture, ripe fruit flavors and pleasant tannins. |