Readers should keep an eye out for the upcoming release of the 1999 Patrimo (1,100 cases). Made from 100% Merlot and cropped at a low 22 hectoliters per hectare, this spectacular wine had not been bottled when I tasted it, but I was assured there would be no filtration prior to bottling. It did not surprise me to learn that the famed Umbrian oenologist, Riccardo Cotarella, was brought in as a consultant for this wine. It reveals his signature in its opaque purple color, stunning notes of ripe blackberries, cherries, and full-bodied personality with super extract, high glycerin, sweet tannin, and beautifully integrated, toasty new French oak. This looks to be a terrific example of Merlot from southern Italy. It should drink well for a decade. A Leonardo Locascio Selection, Winebow, Hohokus, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620
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