Alzero, IGP, 2005

First vintage of this was 1983. A blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon 40% Cabernet Franc and 20% Merlot, the fruit is dried for 5 months. Ageing of the wine is in old wooden barrels for 8 years. 15% alcohol and 15 g/l residual sugar. Ripe plum fruit and peach skin sweetness offset the tell-tale Cabernet tones of pencil lead, with complex notes of spices and dried cassis.