The 2008 Maestro Raro is beautiful in this vintage, a year in which Cabernet Sauvignon varietal character reigns supreme. Plums, cassis, wild herbs, leather and licorice all come together gracefully in this gorgeous, expressive wine. The 2008 impresses for its length and striking, pure finish. This is a great showing. Maestro Raro is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from Sangiovese, Trebbiano and Malvasia vines that were grafted over beginning in 1984. The 2008 is understated and classy, but its all there. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2028. 94 points from Robert Parker, The Wine AdvocateWinery Notes:The grapes come from the vineyards Rancia Piccola and Poggiolo, the first also called Mastro Raro, adjacent and similar to that of Rancia. The best-known and most wydely-planted red grape in the world, Cabernet Sauvignon, was planted here, right in the locus of the Felsina terroir at its most classic. First vintage 1987.After the quality-selected clusters are de-stemmed and pressed, the must is fermented and macerated in stainless steel for 16-20 days at 28C and 30C, with programmed punchdowns and daily pumpovers. In March-April, the new wine goes into new French oak barrels; after 18-20 months of maturation, the final blend is assembled, bottled, and ages in glass a minimum of 8-10 months.Deep red with shades of purple and violet. Aromas of berries, tobacco, leather and black tea, without any particular herbal or grassy notes. Consistent, warm and harmonious on the palate. Good elegance and persistence with ample finish.
