Nittardi Ad Astra, Maremma Toscana, Italy, 2015, 5L (MW 16.5)

Mid to deep ruby. Scented with a complex mix of red and black fruits and still remarkably primary in its fruit character. There’s an additional layer that makes me think of crushed rocks, a sort of dusty quality that is more texture than aroma even though it seems part of the aroma. Firm, chewy but finely textured, with lots of freshness and that slight chalky grip that made me think of crushed rocks. It’s surprising how little the Cabernet dominates, just adding its fresh cassis as a base layer and perhaps firming up the tannins. I’d find it very hard to identify the varieties if I tasted this blind. Lively and still very young. For the table, for now at least. – 16.5 / 20 points, Julia Harding / MW

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