(ST 91) (70% cabernet sauvignon, 25% petite verdot and 5% syrah) Deep, dark ruby. Begins with smoky herbal and tobacco scents complemented by a hint of violets. Flavors of plum and raspberry jam, roasted coffee bean, bitter chocolate, black pepper and clove are framed by refreshing acidity and supported by dusty, mouthcoating tannins. The long finish alternates between glove leather and tar, with a distinct note of graphite running through the aftertaste. Complex and delicious. (Hofstatter is a privately owned property currently under the direction of Martin Foradori, who aims-among other goals-to make the finest pinot nero in Italy. Some believe that he may have already done so.)