The 1997 Lupicaia is largely the result of an April frost that swept through much of Tuscany that year, dramatically lowering yields. The 1997 is remarkable for the sheer weight and concentration of its fruit. The wine possesses awesome richness in a full-bodied style. Some of the ripeness has been achieved at the expense of aromatic complexity, but nevertheless the 1997 Lupicaia remains a superb wine that should continue to age gracefully on it the sheer depth of its fruit. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2022.

Inky ruby-purple. Huge but focused aromas of roasted sweet black fruits, caramel, cinnamon and mint. Round but rock-solid, almost chewy in its density, with the balancing acidity to maintain the freshness of its minty blackcurrant fruit. Extremely rich through to the very long finish.