Quintarelli Alzero 2005

Cabernet-driven and surprisingly graceful for Alzero. Fresh-cut flowers, cool mint, and sweet red berry fruit — the blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Cabernet Franc, and 20% Merlot leans aromatic and lifted rather than dense. Mid-weight on the palate with bright, refreshing acidity that stamps this as a cool vintage through and through. Accessible now and unlikely to demand extended cellaring, though that vivid acidity will keep it fresh for years. Worth noting: no Quintarelli Amarone was produced in 2005 — only Rosso del Bepi.