2012 IL BARONE, Cabernet 3 Liter

♦ 93 Points - Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate - "A selection of the estate’s finest lots, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Il Barone’s texture and richness are outstanding. A dense ruby/purple color is followed by abundant notes of blackcurrants, licorice, graphite and a hint of new saddle leather. Full-bodied with soft tannins as well as a long, authoritative style, it can be drunk over the next 10+ years." ♦ 92 Points - Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media - "The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Il Barone is dark, powerful and intense. Red/black fruits, tobacco, smoke, licorice and earthiness are some of the notes that meld together in a compact, energetic wine long on class. The Barone offers plenty of fruit intensity, but the tannins need time to soften. Today, there is very little of the vintage's early appeal on display. Drink 2017 – 2027" ♦ 90 Points - James Suckling - "A chewy red with ripe fruit and tannins. Lots of wood tannins and dried fruit character too. Full and flavorful. A little jammy but outstanding. Drink or hold." ♦ 90 Points - Wine & Spirits Magazine - "Cabernet sauvignon blended with four percent merlot, this is a purple-fruited wine with strong tannins. Air takes those tannins toward a velvet texture, bringing out a black mushroom savor against the sweet fruit. Give this several years in the cellar, or hours in a decanter, before serving with roast lamb."