The 1999 Sammarco is the first vintage in this vertical that shows some degree of aromatic development! Sweet crushed flowers, mint, black cherries, incense and licorice add shades of dimension. Sinewy, powerful and structured, the 1999 has enough density and energy to drink well for many years to come. This is a classic 1999 built on power and brawn.

The Sammarco, a blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Sangiovese, has been one of Tuscany's great classics for nearly two decades. The 1999 Sammarco is tight and closed, but wow, what potential! A dense ruby/purple color is followed by a sweet nose of high class cigar tobacco intermixed with smoke, minerals, black currants, and vanilla. In the mouth, it is dense, medium to full-bodied, with superb richness, purity, and overall harmony. Cellaring is mandatory for this backward, still primary 1999. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2025. A classic! Importer: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate 31/12/2002 The Sammarco, a blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Sangiovese, has been one of Tuscany''s great classics for nearly two decades. The 1999 Sammarco is tight and closed, but wow, what potential! A dense ruby/purple color is followed by a sweet nose of high class cigar tobacco intermixed with smoke, minerals, black currants, and vanilla. In the mouth, it is dense, medium to full-bodied, with superb richness, purity, and overall harmony. Cellaring is mandatory for this backward, still primary 1999. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2025. A classic! ()

A little smudgier looking than most. Deep ruby. Hugely seductive. A sort of Pomerol style. Surely Michel Rolland was involved here?! Seems very Merlot. (In fact it is very ripe Cabernet Sauvignon with some Sangiovese.) Very lush and rich and flattering though not as refreshing as some. Tannins slightly drying. Not obviously Italian at all. (JR)