1999 Le Macchiole, Messorio, IGT 1x750ml

Vinous 96

The 1999 is one of the more focused, intense Messorios in this lineup. It shows the minerality and drive of the cooler vintage in its clean, beautifully delineated aromas and flavors. Espresso, grilled herbs and mint are some of the nuances that linger on the finish. The 1999 continues to change in the glass, offering a preview of what is in store for readers lucky enough to own it. This is an absolutely joyous wine to follow in the glass. [Antonio Galloni, 01/02/2011]

Anticipated maturity: 2014-2029

Robert Parker 98

The awesome, saturated purple-colored 1999 Messorio is a 100% Merlot aged 18 months in French oak prior to being bottled without filtration. The alcohol is a lofty 14.6% and the dry extract number is about the highest technically I have ever seen. The first vintage of this cuvee was 1995, so it is still an infant in terms of how well it develops in the bottle. However, the 1999 is packed and stacked. Aromas of cola, coffee, blackberries, and intense black cherry jam interspersed with mocha, licorice, and pain grille characteristics are followed by a massive wine with great precision, purity, concentration, and length. I don’t want to get too carried away since only 4,000 bottles were produced, but this is a riveting example of what can be achieved on the Tuscan coastline. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2019. A Leonardo Locascio Selection, Winebow, Hohokus, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620 [Robert Parker, 12/01/2002]

Anticipated maturity: 2009-2019