Crushed stone, sweet smoke and fresh mint leaf give way to wild berries and a hint of vanilla bean as the 2017 Rosso Mater Matuta unfolds in the glass. Its textures are silky and pliant, and a polished display of blackberry and tart cherry creates a completely elegant impression as saline-minerals and sweet tannins collect toward the close. This tapers off lightly structured and incredibly long, leaving a staining of blue and purple-tinged fruits to linger. The Mater Matuta is a beautiful blending of 85% Syrah and 15% Petit Verdot that’s already showing quite well, likely the result of the warmth of the 2017 vintage. (EG)

Cured pork, fresh coffee, pennies and sour cherries define this meaty, metallic nose. Cranberries join the cherries to pop on the palate, but strong notes of herbal tea lead to a lengthy finish. There's a sophisticated, healthy balance between tannins and acidity. (DC)