Further proof that the excellent vineyards of Montepulciano can compete with any in Italy. A big and youthful wine filled with aromas that range from chocolate, cocoa and spice to fresh and dried red cherries to mint and cedar and finally wind up in the world of olives and leather. The palate is a bit more restrained as of now with olives, leather, roasted fruit compote and a nice combination of tannins and acids. While it could use some time in bottle, this is certainly a great "food" wine now.