The 1997 Percarlo is stunning. It is also impossibly young. Dark red cherries, flowers and mint wrap around the palate in this sensual, inviting wine. In keeping with the qualities of the warm year, the 1997 emphasizes textural depth and richness rather then the more aromatic, firm style that defines cooler years such as 1996. The 1997 is drop dead gorgeous today. I imagine the 1997 will age faster than the 1996, but that shouldn't be much of a problem given the wine's exceptional balance. Layers of fruit built to the huge, textured finish. This is a decidedly flashy wine. I have always had a soft spot for the 1997. This bottle more than exceeded my expectations.

The 1997 Percarlo impresses for its pure seduction. It is also impossibly young. Dark red cherries, flowers and mint wrap around the palate in this sensual, inviting wine. In keeping with the qualities of the warm year, the 1997 emphasizes textural depth and richness rather then the more aromatic, firm style that defines cooler years such as 1996. The 1997 is drop dead gorgeous today. I imagine the 1997 will age faster than the 1996, but that shouldn’t be much of a problem given the wine’s exceptional balance. Layers of fruit built to the huge, textured finish. This is a decidedly flashy wine. I have always had a soft spot for the 1997. This bottle more than exceeded my expectations. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2017. (Antonio Galloni)