The 2007 Tenuta di Trinoro delivers impressive results despite the challenging, drought-driven growing season. Andrea Franchetti remembers walking through the vineyards and hearing the crackling sound of leaves as they disintegrated in the dry weather. Under those conditions, it's not hard to imagine the dark berry concentration, textural density and general ripeness on display in this wine. This edition sees Cabernet Franc in the driver's seat (at 55% of the blend) because, as Franchetti puts it, "Cabernet Franc ripens on a sweet side, not a sour side." The wine is fleshy, opulent and packed tight with blackberry preserves, cherry compote, spice, leather and grilled herb. The tannins are dry and polished, but they make a great contrast against the sweetness of the wine's berry flavors.

50% Cabernet Franc, 40% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot (!). Very dark indeed. Superlative. A wine that stands apart because it was a very dry year. Not that hot but there was so little liquid that the pumps would stop because of lack of pressure. Sound of dry leaves being raked. Just skins really. Exceptionally deep crimson. Fantastic richness. Not uncomfortably dry despite the lack of juice. Beautifully long and fresh. Young and sweet. Very youthful and angular. (JR)