In 2004, Gaja's Sorì San Lorenzo is unusually polished and feminine, with fewer of the dark, brooding overtones that are so typical of this site. Super-expressive aromatics meld seamlessly into silky, beautifully layered fruit. Hints of exotic spice, hard candy, smoke and French oak add nuance on the striking finish. At the early part of its drinking window, the 2004 will have no trouble aging gracefully for another decade or two. There is little doubt the 2004 is one of the truly great Sorì San Lorenzos. -- Antonio Galloni, November 2014

The 2004 Sori San Lorenzo is a drop-dead gorgeous wine. It presents awesome balance, especially in the way it marries power with elegance. This is a remarkably refined and understated Sori San Lorenzo, with never-ending layers of dark raspberries, licorice, grilled herbs and tar that flow from its sumptuous frame. A dark, brooding beauty, it will require several additional years of bottle at a minimum, but those with the patience to wait will be amply rewarded. In most vintages I prefer the Sori Tildin, but in 2004 Sori San Lorenzo has a very slight edge over its sibling. It may very well be the finest Sori San Lorenzo since the legendary 1971. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2029. AG