Stratus prides itself on assemblage wines (a mixing of barrels and wines to create something special) – but what if they took a special grape and selected a couple of barrels to creaet an interesting single varietal assemblage. Which is exactly what they did for this 56 case production of Sangiovese from 4 year old vines (planted in 2006). It’s a real curiousity that manages to maintain Sangio-character, even if grown in Ontario soil. Nice intensity with chalky, sour cherry and nice spice (which are typical traits for the grape). I’ve scored this wine based on it being a Sangiovese, as interesting (for Ontario) as it is it is still typical for the variety (which make it interesting but not outstanding or over-delivering); once JL has the basics down he can embellish, but this is a great foundation – for the effort Stratus get an A. Price: $42.00 – Rating: *** ½+