1999 Montevertine "Le Pergole Torte" Toscana Rosso (lightly scuffed & nicked label)

The 1999 Le Pergole Torte is powerful, structured and intense, with a big backbone of tannin and tremendous energy. This is one of the more delineated, sinewy vintages of Pergole Torte. In some ways, the 1999 reminds me of the 1988 because of its classicism, but it also has a sense of mid-palate sweetness that is evident. In a bit of an awkward stage, the 1999 is neither young nor old. Clearly, it is closer to the mature end of the spectrum, but I would hold off for a few years in the hope the tannins will soften a touch. Today, the 1999 is awkward, but the pedigree is evident. Cherry pit, smoke, tobacco and cedar resonate on the incisive finish. With time in the glass, the wine gets better and better. (AG) 94+