The 1996 Serpico (a blend of 60% Aglianico, 30% Piedirosso, and 10% Sangiovese) displays an opaque ruby color with purple nuances. It is full-bodied and rich, with copious quantities of pepper, chocolate, and cherry jam. If not for the presence of gritty tannin in the finish, this wine may have merited an outstanding score. Perhaps that will dissipate with age as this offering is capable of evolving for a decade. A Leonardo Locascio Selection, Winebow, Hohokus, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620