2017 castello di ama, apparita, toscana

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Why We're Buying

Castello di Ama l'Apparita is a force to be reckoned with, as it bursts forth with power and concentration. Blackberries, cherries, and cassis soak the palate with smoke, brioche, cigars, and tar rounding out the flavor profile. This wine contains 100 merlot and conveys remarkable balance with a refreshingly acidic finish. Wine critic James Suckling gave the 2017 vintage a 97-point rating, writing in his review, "I am impressed by the freshness here, as well as the intensity for the vintage."

Critics Scores

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

I am immediately struck by the power and concentration of the Castello di Ama 2017 L'Apparita. This is an exuberant and gregarious expression of Merlot that has absorbed every last sunbeam of the hot summer season. On the nose, the wine shows beautiful fullness and generosity that spills richly across the senses. Blackberry syrup and cherry liqueur are followed by smoke, tar, toast and sweet chewing tobacco. You taste that extra density in a similar manner, and the rich concentration of the fruit has consequently shaped a more apparent tannin and a little snap of astringency on the close. My sample bottle does not show a reading of the wine's alcoholic content, but you feel some heat as well. This edition of L'Apparita is extra dark, succulent and firm. When the wine has been given another five to ten years of cellar age, then I'd suggest guinea fowl or one of those delicious roasted pigeon dishes you find in Tuscany.