($140): Founded only in 1974, Querciabella has leapt to the top tier of Tuscan producers, making an exceptional range of both red and white wines.  Camartina, a blend of roughly 2/3 Cabernet Sauvignon and 1/3 Sangiovese, is their flagship red.  It’s always a majestic wine, but the 2010 is even more extraordinary than usual.  Often the heft of Cabernet can overwhelm the more delicate nuances of Sangiovese, but not in this case.  The team at Querciabella has produced a seamless combination of dark fruit, earthy savory qualities, tarry notes and invigorating acidity.  Each sip dazzles, revealing new flavors.  Though powerful and penetrating, it’s not a heavy wine.  Though a young wine, it is remarkable engaging now.  That said, if you have the resources — money, a cellar, and wines to drink now — I’d put it in the cellar for a decade or so.
97 Michael Apstein Dec 8, 2015