2003 Querciabella Camartina (Elsewhere $80)

93 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate "At the risk of sounding like a broken record, the 2003 Camartina is a drop-dead gorgeous effort. Fat, rich and opulent, it will reward consumers with its generous super-ripe fruit, great length and beautiful overall balance. While it doesn't look to be one of the more long-lived Camartinas, with some air it is drinking beautifully today. It is a very refined effort in this vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2018." (06/07) 92 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, Aug 07: "Deep ruby. Floral red cherry, plum and grilled bacon aromas are complicated by a note of black pepper. Rich and suave on the palate, with strong spicy fruit flavors highlighted by mocha and cedar. Almost muscular in its thick, rich fruit, but the tannins are fairly smooth for the vintage. Finishes long and clean." 91 points Wine Spectator: "Attractive coffee, blackberry and tobacco character on the nose. Full-bodied, with loads of velvety tannins and a long, caressing finish. Beauty. Very well-crafted, especially for the vintage. Best after 2006." (10/05) 91 points Wine Enthusiast: "Sweet, warm tones of mature cherry and blueberry preserves make for a thick and concentrated wine that leaves a long trail of luscious fruit on the palate. The wood tones are overt and bring notes of vanilla, toasted almond and leather to the wine. Ready to drink now." (04/08)