Cantina Tollo Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Cagiòlo Riserva 2016

WE 94 / VM 91 pts

WE: This rich Montepulciano boasts a deep well of aromas on the nose, showing coconut, clove, anise and menthol all woven into the dense dark-cherry and plum core. Crushed-velvet tannins deliver an unctuous feel on the full-bodied palate, with ample berry and spice flavors filling it out. Spiced red cherry lingers long on the finish. Drink through 2030.

The 2016 Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Riserva Cagiolo wafts up with a dark and dusty display, showing exotic spice, dried black cherries and a lifting note of pine resin. This is silky in feel with ripe red fruits, yet it quickly firms up as minerals and fine tannins collect toward the close. It’s youthfully structured and dry, while resonating on violet, hints of vanilla bean and tobacco. The 2016 carries its oak influence well.