Tua Rita Redigaffi 2012 (1.5L)

98 JS / 97 DE / 96 VM / 95 WA

Compelling aromas of chili pepper, nuts, beeswax and dark fruits with dried strawberries. Hints of black olives and meat. Full body with extremely thick, silky tannins and a long, flavorful finish. This is layered and so structured, with fabulous length and density. Savory. Chocolate powder at the end. This needs at least three or four years of bottle age. A triumph for the vintage. Pure merlot. James Suckling

The 2012 has a lively, vibrant and fragrant nose of violets and roses intermingled with woodsmoke and charred oak. It's less voluptuous and more harmonious on the palate than the 2011, and the tannins are ripe and finely integrated. Little elements of green herb intertwine with black fruits and plums to create some bright, contrasting flavours. Owner Stefano Frascolla says it is' too politically correct', but I love its balance and harmony within the context of a rich, hedonistic Merlot. Decanter

The 2012 Redigaffi jumps from the glass with explosive dark blue/blackish fruit. Rich, voluptuous and impeccably textured in the glass, the 2012 boasts massive depth and concentration, yet retains tons of freshness. Silky tannins round out a finish laced with melted road tar, herbs and leather. For such a big wine, the Redigaffi is remarkably complex and nuanced. The 2012 was aged in 100% new, thick-staved Darnajou barrels, which are seldom seen in Italy but widely used throughout Napa Valley and elsewhere. In some recent vintages I have slightly preferred the Syrah over the Redigaffi, but in 2012 the wines are both fabulous. Simply put, the 2012 Redigaffi is a stunner. - Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media