Had these wines over the course of dinner last night at a friend's home.
N.V. Tanore' Di Follador G. E Figli Prosecco di Valdobbiadene Spumante Extra Dry - Italy, Veneto, Prosecco di Valdobbiadene (8/15/2008)
This is a fantastic prosecco. There is actually some complexity here. Aromas of honeysuckle and freshly baked biscuits waft from the glass. The palate has some richly appointed fruit, slightly sweet, with a fine core of acidity to carry it all to a delightfully loitering finish. I need to try the cartizze now.
1998 Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona Sant' Antimo Ateo - Italy, Tuscany, Montalcino, Sant' Antimo (8/15/2008)
Easily the best bottle to date and my last. Expressive nose and lovely palate. The fruit is still there, it's just evolved to a more complex place. No baby fat whatsoever. Silky and long on the finish. Stellar qpr wine.
2005 Ippolito Cirò Rosso Classico Superiore Liber Pater - Italy, Calabria, Cirò Rosso Classico Superiore (8/15/2008)
Pop and pour. 100% Gaglioppo. Arromatics are lush, almost candied raspberry with some funk (animal fur) and spice. One friend says it smells like Central Coast Pinot Noir. At first it shows nicely on the palate with some concentrated flavors, balanced acidity and smooth texture. With air, the tannins begin to clamp down. Needs a few years to integrate. A steal at $17.