2021 Argiano Solengo

This blended red made with 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 15% Petit Verdot and 5% Sangiovese is always a bit of a shocker, especially when tasted within the context of this report that focuses almost entirely on Sangiovese-based wines. Given this backdrop, the Argiano 2021 Solengo appears super extracted, oak-driven and overblown from all points of view. It's all too much in the most opulent way. Spicy oak tones of toasted cinnamon and clove cut straight through blackberry confit and crème de cassis. The fruit flavors are jammy and syrupy. This wine catapults you straight out of the Sangiovese stratosphere, and that's exactly what makes it so much fun. Some 50,000 bottles were made.