This appassimento wine has been on my radar for some time, it's a Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc blend that weighs in at a whopping 16.5% alcohol. I have tried it a number of times before and have not been impressed, but at a most recent tasting in late-August of 2014 I found myself intrigued and thought maybe the wine has turned a corner. The aromas still show the robust alcohol but also black cherry, mocha/cocoa and blackberry ... the palate comes off as silky with acid gripping the cheeks and tannins nipping at the back palate, but the flavours also seem to follow what the nose promised. 1 good tasting out of 4 does not make for a good wine, but I'll rate this tentatively and with the caveat of "this bottle"; here’s hoping you find one like it too. Price: $55.00 - Rating: ****