A pure expression of Syrah, the Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona 2016 Sant'Antimo Fabius is an impressive expression of the grape. Syrah always tends to show opulent richness and succulence, and although you certainly get that here, I'm also reminded of its Tuscan roots. It tends to be more compact and linear overall. This wine pulls in opposite directions, and that's what makes it most interesting. You will recognize those varietal characteristics for sure, but they are ultimately overridden by the wine's Tuscan identity. With 8,000 bottles made, this is terrific value.

"Lovely aromas of chocolate, game and blackberries. Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a chewy finish. Needs bottle age. Cool, new wine. Syrah. Best after 2002. 550 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                                    

"Smoky, ripe and rich, with plenty of berry and meaty aromas. Full-bodied Syrah, soft and caressing, with lovely fruit and subtle yet interesting character. Best after 2002. 700 cases made." -B.S. 

"Very pretty, with blackberry, spice and light meat aromas. Full-bodied, with a thick and rich palate, yet soft and round. Really delicious Syrah. Ciacci always makes excellent reds. Best from 2004 through 2009. 690 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                                                                                                                                     

"Ripe, fruity wine with soft and silky tannins and plenty of cedar and berry character. Turns to coffee and tobacco on the finish. Good shot of new wood. Best after 2004. 550 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                 

"Interesting meaty, spicy berry character in this wine. Full-bodied, with round and caressing tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Subtle for a Syrah. Drink now. 650 cases made." -B.S.                               

"Subtle aromas of blackberry, chocolate and cherry follow through to a medium-bodied palate, with soft tannins and a fruity, spicy aftertaste. Syrah. Best after 2007. 650 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                          

"Big, juicy and caressing, with loads of ripe fruit, plum and blackberry character. Full, long and delicious. Hard not to drink now. Syrah. Best after 2009. 660 cases made." -B.S.                                                                      

"Medium- to full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a mineral, slightly cedar undertone. Chewy. Slightly one-dimensional. Needs some bottle age to develop and open. Syrah. Best after 2010. 665 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                                   

"Plum and cherry aromas and flavors, with a full body and silky tannins. A little too much wood showing at the moment, dulling the fruit, but attractive all the same. Syrah. Best after 2010. 660 cases made. " -B.S.                                                                                             

"A wine that shows lots of raisin fruit, with meat and mahogany character. You can really see the influence of the hot growing season. Round and ripe, with fruit-coated tannins. Best after 2011. 550 cases made. " -B.S.                                                                                               

"Laced with cherry, strawberry and licorice flavors, this red is compact and almost chewy in texture, with a bright structure and a long, tobacco-tinged finish. Drink now through 2020. 650 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                               

"Aromas of dried fruits with hints of smoked meat and walnuts. Full body, with loads of fruit and a juicy, velvety palate. Intense finish. This is a pure Syrah with beautiful richness and texture. Drink or hold."                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      

"The 2009 Fabius is a bit of a mystery, since Syrah is a variety that generally does well in warmer years. The fruit is very much on the ripe side, with prominent notes of blackberry jam, licorice, spices and alcohol. At the same time, the tannins are surprisingly hard. Something isn’t quite right in the wine’s overall sense of balance. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2014". 

"The 2007 Fabius reveals layers of dark, introspective fruit. There is plenty of richness and depth in the glass, although slight suggestions of heat come through from time to time. Hints of mocha, chocolate and spices inform the finish. Fabius is Syrah from vineyards in the Sant’Antimo appellation just outside the classic Brunello producing zone. Though unquestionably a beautiful wine, varietal character doesn’t seem to be a priority as it is nowhere to be found. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019."

"The 2006 Fabius (Syrah) is a gorgeous, medium-bodied wine loaded with dark fruit, smoke and earthiness. Previous vintages have been more concentrated in style, and the 2006 seems to give more attention to finesse rather than sheer heft. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2014." 

Like Ateo, Ciacci’s 2005 Fabius (100% Syrah) is another rich, concentrated wine loaded with sweet dark fruit. The wine has a lovely, plush mouthfeel but in this vintage it doesn’t have the level of varietal expression or complexity that might allow it to merit a higher score. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2017. Proprietor Paolo Bianchini is upbeat about his 2003 Brunellos. It is the first vintage in which he had the tools to perform a cold soak, which he feels was especially critical in preserving as much freshness as possible in the wines. For the Brunellos, fermentation and maceration lasted several weeks and the wines were aged in cask."

"The deeply-colored 2003 Fabius (100% Syrah) is a powerful wine. It exudes masses of unabashedly super-to-over-ripe dark jammy fruit, toasted oak, licorice and black currant flavors with terrific concentration on the palate, great length and just enough freshness to keep things in balance. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2018". 

"The 2001 Fabius is 100% Syrah, and its inspiration seems more Australian than French in the sweet, ultra-ripe fruit, blackberry and coconut nose, broad and luxurious palate, and supple, plush close. Drink: 2004-2014." 

"There are only 15 barrels (approximately 375 cases) of the 100% Syrah 1998 Sant'Antimo Favius, which may be the finest Italian Syrah I have tasted. An opaque purple color is followed by a classic bouquet of bacon fat, blackberry liqueur, and cassis. This monstrous fruit bomb is unctuous, thick, and unbelievably concentrated. The wine's new oak aging has been absorbed by its formidable concentration of fruit. Drink this exuberant, in your face offering over the next 5-7 years."

A pure expression of Syrah, the Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona 2016 Sant'Antimo Fabius is an impressive expression of the grape. Syrah always tends to show opulent richness and succulence, and although you certainly get that here, I'm also reminded of its Tuscan roots. It tends to be more compact and linear overall. This wine pulls in opposite directions, and that's what makes it most interesting. You will recognize those varietal characteristics for sure, but they are ultimately overridden by the wine's Tuscan identity. With 8,000 bottles made, this is terrific value.

"Lovely aromas of chocolate, game and blackberries. Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a chewy finish. Needs bottle age. Cool, new wine. Syrah. Best after 2002. 550 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                                    

"Smoky, ripe and rich, with plenty of berry and meaty aromas. Full-bodied Syrah, soft and caressing, with lovely fruit and subtle yet interesting character. Best after 2002. 700 cases made." -B.S. 

"Very pretty, with blackberry, spice and light meat aromas. Full-bodied, with a thick and rich palate, yet soft and round. Really delicious Syrah. Ciacci always makes excellent reds. Best from 2004 through 2009. 690 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                                                                                                                                     

"Ripe, fruity wine with soft and silky tannins and plenty of cedar and berry character. Turns to coffee and tobacco on the finish. Good shot of new wood. Best after 2004. 550 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                 

"Interesting meaty, spicy berry character in this wine. Full-bodied, with round and caressing tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Subtle for a Syrah. Drink now. 650 cases made." -B.S.                               

"Subtle aromas of blackberry, chocolate and cherry follow through to a medium-bodied palate, with soft tannins and a fruity, spicy aftertaste. Syrah. Best after 2007. 650 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                          

"Big, juicy and caressing, with loads of ripe fruit, plum and blackberry character. Full, long and delicious. Hard not to drink now. Syrah. Best after 2009. 660 cases made." -B.S.                                                                      

"Medium- to full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a mineral, slightly cedar undertone. Chewy. Slightly one-dimensional. Needs some bottle age to develop and open. Syrah. Best after 2010. 665 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                                   

"Plum and cherry aromas and flavors, with a full body and silky tannins. A little too much wood showing at the moment, dulling the fruit, but attractive all the same. Syrah. Best after 2010. 660 cases made. " -B.S.                                                                                             

"A wine that shows lots of raisin fruit, with meat and mahogany character. You can really see the influence of the hot growing season. Round and ripe, with fruit-coated tannins. Best after 2011. 550 cases made. " -B.S.                                                                                               

"Laced with cherry, strawberry and licorice flavors, this red is compact and almost chewy in texture, with a bright structure and a long, tobacco-tinged finish. Drink now through 2020. 650 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                               

"Aromas of dried fruits with hints of smoked meat and walnuts. Full body, with loads of fruit and a juicy, velvety palate. Intense finish. This is a pure Syrah with beautiful richness and texture. Drink or hold."                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      

"The 2009 Fabius is a bit of a mystery, since Syrah is a variety that generally does well in warmer years. The fruit is very much on the ripe side, with prominent notes of blackberry jam, licorice, spices and alcohol. At the same time, the tannins are surprisingly hard. Something isn’t quite right in the wine’s overall sense of balance. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2014". 

"The 2007 Fabius reveals layers of dark, introspective fruit. There is plenty of richness and depth in the glass, although slight suggestions of heat come through from time to time. Hints of mocha, chocolate and spices inform the finish. Fabius is Syrah from vineyards in the Sant’Antimo appellation just outside the classic Brunello producing zone. Though unquestionably a beautiful wine, varietal character doesn’t seem to be a priority as it is nowhere to be found. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019."

"The 2006 Fabius (Syrah) is a gorgeous, medium-bodied wine loaded with dark fruit, smoke and earthiness. Previous vintages have been more concentrated in style, and the 2006 seems to give more attention to finesse rather than sheer heft. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2014." 

Like Ateo, Ciacci’s 2005 Fabius (100% Syrah) is another rich, concentrated wine loaded with sweet dark fruit. The wine has a lovely, plush mouthfeel but in this vintage it doesn’t have the level of varietal expression or complexity that might allow it to merit a higher score. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2017. Proprietor Paolo Bianchini is upbeat about his 2003 Brunellos. It is the first vintage in which he had the tools to perform a cold soak, which he feels was especially critical in preserving as much freshness as possible in the wines. For the Brunellos, fermentation and maceration lasted several weeks and the wines were aged in cask."

"The deeply-colored 2003 Fabius (100% Syrah) is a powerful wine. It exudes masses of unabashedly super-to-over-ripe dark jammy fruit, toasted oak, licorice and black currant flavors with terrific concentration on the palate, great length and just enough freshness to keep things in balance. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2018". 

"The 2001 Fabius is 100% Syrah, and its inspiration seems more Australian than French in the sweet, ultra-ripe fruit, blackberry and coconut nose, broad and luxurious palate, and supple, plush close. Drink: 2004-2014." 

"There are only 15 barrels (approximately 375 cases) of the 100% Syrah 1998 Sant'Antimo Favius, which may be the finest Italian Syrah I have tasted. An opaque purple color is followed by a classic bouquet of bacon fat, blackberry liqueur, and cassis. This monstrous fruit bomb is unctuous, thick, and unbelievably concentrated. The wine's new oak aging has been absorbed by its formidable concentration of fruit. Drink this exuberant, in your face offering over the next 5-7 years."

A rare look at Syrah from the cool Montalcino climate, the 2019 Sant'Antimo Fabius is packed tight with blackberry and black cherry along with spice, sweet tobacco and smoked bacon. There's a lot going on aromatically speaking, but the wine stays clear of the heavier black pepper or cured leather aromas that you often get in New World Syrah. I love the soft texture, freshness and tension that this extremely well-priced wine exhibits. Production is 13,000 bottles.

"Lovely aromas of chocolate, game and blackberries. Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a chewy finish. Needs bottle age. Cool, new wine. Syrah. Best after 2002. 550 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                                    

"Smoky, ripe and rich, with plenty of berry and meaty aromas. Full-bodied Syrah, soft and caressing, with lovely fruit and subtle yet interesting character. Best after 2002. 700 cases made." -B.S. 

"Very pretty, with blackberry, spice and light meat aromas. Full-bodied, with a thick and rich palate, yet soft and round. Really delicious Syrah. Ciacci always makes excellent reds. Best from 2004 through 2009. 690 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                                                                                                                                     

"Ripe, fruity wine with soft and silky tannins and plenty of cedar and berry character. Turns to coffee and tobacco on the finish. Good shot of new wood. Best after 2004. 550 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                 

"Interesting meaty, spicy berry character in this wine. Full-bodied, with round and caressing tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Subtle for a Syrah. Drink now. 650 cases made." -B.S.                               

"Subtle aromas of blackberry, chocolate and cherry follow through to a medium-bodied palate, with soft tannins and a fruity, spicy aftertaste. Syrah. Best after 2007. 650 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                          

"Big, juicy and caressing, with loads of ripe fruit, plum and blackberry character. Full, long and delicious. Hard not to drink now. Syrah. Best after 2009. 660 cases made." -B.S.                                                                      

"Medium- to full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a mineral, slightly cedar undertone. Chewy. Slightly one-dimensional. Needs some bottle age to develop and open. Syrah. Best after 2010. 665 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                                   

"Plum and cherry aromas and flavors, with a full body and silky tannins. A little too much wood showing at the moment, dulling the fruit, but attractive all the same. Syrah. Best after 2010. 660 cases made. " -B.S.                                                                                             

"A wine that shows lots of raisin fruit, with meat and mahogany character. You can really see the influence of the hot growing season. Round and ripe, with fruit-coated tannins. Best after 2011. 550 cases made. " -B.S.                                                                                               

"Laced with cherry, strawberry and licorice flavors, this red is compact and almost chewy in texture, with a bright structure and a long, tobacco-tinged finish. Drink now through 2020. 650 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                               

"Aromas of dried fruits with hints of smoked meat and walnuts. Full body, with loads of fruit and a juicy, velvety palate. Intense finish. This is a pure Syrah with beautiful richness and texture. Drink or hold."                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      

"The 2009 Fabius is a bit of a mystery, since Syrah is a variety that generally does well in warmer years. The fruit is very much on the ripe side, with prominent notes of blackberry jam, licorice, spices and alcohol. At the same time, the tannins are surprisingly hard. Something isn’t quite right in the wine’s overall sense of balance. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2014". 

"The 2007 Fabius reveals layers of dark, introspective fruit. There is plenty of richness and depth in the glass, although slight suggestions of heat come through from time to time. Hints of mocha, chocolate and spices inform the finish. Fabius is Syrah from vineyards in the Sant’Antimo appellation just outside the classic Brunello producing zone. Though unquestionably a beautiful wine, varietal character doesn’t seem to be a priority as it is nowhere to be found. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019."

"The 2006 Fabius (Syrah) is a gorgeous, medium-bodied wine loaded with dark fruit, smoke and earthiness. Previous vintages have been more concentrated in style, and the 2006 seems to give more attention to finesse rather than sheer heft. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2014." 

Like Ateo, Ciacci’s 2005 Fabius (100% Syrah) is another rich, concentrated wine loaded with sweet dark fruit. The wine has a lovely, plush mouthfeel but in this vintage it doesn’t have the level of varietal expression or complexity that might allow it to merit a higher score. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2017. Proprietor Paolo Bianchini is upbeat about his 2003 Brunellos. It is the first vintage in which he had the tools to perform a cold soak, which he feels was especially critical in preserving as much freshness as possible in the wines. For the Brunellos, fermentation and maceration lasted several weeks and the wines were aged in cask."

"The deeply-colored 2003 Fabius (100% Syrah) is a powerful wine. It exudes masses of unabashedly super-to-over-ripe dark jammy fruit, toasted oak, licorice and black currant flavors with terrific concentration on the palate, great length and just enough freshness to keep things in balance. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2018". 

"The 2001 Fabius is 100% Syrah, and its inspiration seems more Australian than French in the sweet, ultra-ripe fruit, blackberry and coconut nose, broad and luxurious palate, and supple, plush close. Drink: 2004-2014." 

"There are only 15 barrels (approximately 375 cases) of the 100% Syrah 1998 Sant'Antimo Favius, which may be the finest Italian Syrah I have tasted. An opaque purple color is followed by a classic bouquet of bacon fat, blackberry liqueur, and cassis. This monstrous fruit bomb is unctuous, thick, and unbelievably concentrated. The wine's new oak aging has been absorbed by its formidable concentration of fruit. Drink this exuberant, in your face offering over the next 5-7 years."

A rare look at Syrah from the cool Montalcino climate, the 2019 Sant'Antimo Fabius is packed tight with blackberry and black cherry along with spice, sweet tobacco and smoked bacon. There's a lot going on aromatically speaking, but the wine stays clear of the heavier black pepper or cured leather aromas that you often get in New World Syrah. I love the soft texture, freshness and tension that this extremely well-priced wine exhibits. Production is 13,000 bottles.

A pure expression of Syrah, the Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona 2016 Sant'Antimo Fabius is an impressive expression of the grape. Syrah always tends to show opulent richness and succulence, and although you certainly get that here, I'm also reminded of its Tuscan roots. It tends to be more compact and linear overall. This wine pulls in opposite directions, and that's what makes it most interesting. You will recognize those varietal characteristics for sure, but they are ultimately overridden by the wine's Tuscan identity. With 8,000 bottles made, this is terrific value.

"Lovely aromas of chocolate, game and blackberries. Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a chewy finish. Needs bottle age. Cool, new wine. Syrah. Best after 2002. 550 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                                    

"Smoky, ripe and rich, with plenty of berry and meaty aromas. Full-bodied Syrah, soft and caressing, with lovely fruit and subtle yet interesting character. Best after 2002. 700 cases made." -B.S. 

"Very pretty, with blackberry, spice and light meat aromas. Full-bodied, with a thick and rich palate, yet soft and round. Really delicious Syrah. Ciacci always makes excellent reds. Best from 2004 through 2009. 690 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                                                                                                                                     

"Ripe, fruity wine with soft and silky tannins and plenty of cedar and berry character. Turns to coffee and tobacco on the finish. Good shot of new wood. Best after 2004. 550 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                 

"Interesting meaty, spicy berry character in this wine. Full-bodied, with round and caressing tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Subtle for a Syrah. Drink now. 650 cases made." -B.S.                               

"Subtle aromas of blackberry, chocolate and cherry follow through to a medium-bodied palate, with soft tannins and a fruity, spicy aftertaste. Syrah. Best after 2007. 650 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                          

"Big, juicy and caressing, with loads of ripe fruit, plum and blackberry character. Full, long and delicious. Hard not to drink now. Syrah. Best after 2009. 660 cases made." -B.S.                                                                      

"Medium- to full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a mineral, slightly cedar undertone. Chewy. Slightly one-dimensional. Needs some bottle age to develop and open. Syrah. Best after 2010. 665 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                                   

"Plum and cherry aromas and flavors, with a full body and silky tannins. A little too much wood showing at the moment, dulling the fruit, but attractive all the same. Syrah. Best after 2010. 660 cases made. " -B.S.                                                                                             

"A wine that shows lots of raisin fruit, with meat and mahogany character. You can really see the influence of the hot growing season. Round and ripe, with fruit-coated tannins. Best after 2011. 550 cases made. " -B.S.                                                                                               

"Laced with cherry, strawberry and licorice flavors, this red is compact and almost chewy in texture, with a bright structure and a long, tobacco-tinged finish. Drink now through 2020. 650 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                               

"Aromas of dried fruits with hints of smoked meat and walnuts. Full body, with loads of fruit and a juicy, velvety palate. Intense finish. This is a pure Syrah with beautiful richness and texture. Drink or hold."                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      

"The 2009 Fabius is a bit of a mystery, since Syrah is a variety that generally does well in warmer years. The fruit is very much on the ripe side, with prominent notes of blackberry jam, licorice, spices and alcohol. At the same time, the tannins are surprisingly hard. Something isn’t quite right in the wine’s overall sense of balance. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2014". 

"The 2007 Fabius reveals layers of dark, introspective fruit. There is plenty of richness and depth in the glass, although slight suggestions of heat come through from time to time. Hints of mocha, chocolate and spices inform the finish. Fabius is Syrah from vineyards in the Sant’Antimo appellation just outside the classic Brunello producing zone. Though unquestionably a beautiful wine, varietal character doesn’t seem to be a priority as it is nowhere to be found. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019."

"The 2006 Fabius (Syrah) is a gorgeous, medium-bodied wine loaded with dark fruit, smoke and earthiness. Previous vintages have been more concentrated in style, and the 2006 seems to give more attention to finesse rather than sheer heft. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2014." 

Like Ateo, Ciacci’s 2005 Fabius (100% Syrah) is another rich, concentrated wine loaded with sweet dark fruit. The wine has a lovely, plush mouthfeel but in this vintage it doesn’t have the level of varietal expression or complexity that might allow it to merit a higher score. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2017. Proprietor Paolo Bianchini is upbeat about his 2003 Brunellos. It is the first vintage in which he had the tools to perform a cold soak, which he feels was especially critical in preserving as much freshness as possible in the wines. For the Brunellos, fermentation and maceration lasted several weeks and the wines were aged in cask."

"The deeply-colored 2003 Fabius (100% Syrah) is a powerful wine. It exudes masses of unabashedly super-to-over-ripe dark jammy fruit, toasted oak, licorice and black currant flavors with terrific concentration on the palate, great length and just enough freshness to keep things in balance. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2018". 

"The 2001 Fabius is 100% Syrah, and its inspiration seems more Australian than French in the sweet, ultra-ripe fruit, blackberry and coconut nose, broad and luxurious palate, and supple, plush close. Drink: 2004-2014." 

"There are only 15 barrels (approximately 375 cases) of the 100% Syrah 1998 Sant'Antimo Favius, which may be the finest Italian Syrah I have tasted. An opaque purple color is followed by a classic bouquet of bacon fat, blackberry liqueur, and cassis. This monstrous fruit bomb is unctuous, thick, and unbelievably concentrated. The wine's new oak aging has been absorbed by its formidable concentration of fruit. Drink this exuberant, in your face offering over the next 5-7 years."

A rare look at Syrah from the cool Montalcino climate, the 2019 Sant'Antimo Fabius is packed tight with blackberry and black cherry along with spice, sweet tobacco and smoked bacon. There's a lot going on aromatically speaking, but the wine stays clear of the heavier black pepper or cured leather aromas that you often get in New World Syrah. I love the soft texture, freshness and tension that this extremely well-priced wine exhibits. Production is 13,000 bottles.

A pure expression of Syrah, the Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona 2016 Sant'Antimo Fabius is an impressive expression of the grape. Syrah always tends to show opulent richness and succulence, and although you certainly get that here, I'm also reminded of its Tuscan roots. It tends to be more compact and linear overall. This wine pulls in opposite directions, and that's what makes it most interesting. You will recognize those varietal characteristics for sure, but they are ultimately overridden by the wine's Tuscan identity. With 8,000 bottles made, this is terrific value.

"Lovely aromas of chocolate, game and blackberries. Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a chewy finish. Needs bottle age. Cool, new wine. Syrah. Best after 2002. 550 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                                    

"Smoky, ripe and rich, with plenty of berry and meaty aromas. Full-bodied Syrah, soft and caressing, with lovely fruit and subtle yet interesting character. Best after 2002. 700 cases made." -B.S. 

"Very pretty, with blackberry, spice and light meat aromas. Full-bodied, with a thick and rich palate, yet soft and round. Really delicious Syrah. Ciacci always makes excellent reds. Best from 2004 through 2009. 690 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                                                                                                                                     

"Ripe, fruity wine with soft and silky tannins and plenty of cedar and berry character. Turns to coffee and tobacco on the finish. Good shot of new wood. Best after 2004. 550 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                 

"Interesting meaty, spicy berry character in this wine. Full-bodied, with round and caressing tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Subtle for a Syrah. Drink now. 650 cases made." -B.S.                               

"Subtle aromas of blackberry, chocolate and cherry follow through to a medium-bodied palate, with soft tannins and a fruity, spicy aftertaste. Syrah. Best after 2007. 650 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                          

"Big, juicy and caressing, with loads of ripe fruit, plum and blackberry character. Full, long and delicious. Hard not to drink now. Syrah. Best after 2009. 660 cases made." -B.S.                                                                      

"Medium- to full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a mineral, slightly cedar undertone. Chewy. Slightly one-dimensional. Needs some bottle age to develop and open. Syrah. Best after 2010. 665 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                                   

"Plum and cherry aromas and flavors, with a full body and silky tannins. A little too much wood showing at the moment, dulling the fruit, but attractive all the same. Syrah. Best after 2010. 660 cases made. " -B.S.                                                                                             

"A wine that shows lots of raisin fruit, with meat and mahogany character. You can really see the influence of the hot growing season. Round and ripe, with fruit-coated tannins. Best after 2011. 550 cases made. " -B.S.                                                                                               

"Laced with cherry, strawberry and licorice flavors, this red is compact and almost chewy in texture, with a bright structure and a long, tobacco-tinged finish. Drink now through 2020. 650 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                               

"Aromas of dried fruits with hints of smoked meat and walnuts. Full body, with loads of fruit and a juicy, velvety palate. Intense finish. This is a pure Syrah with beautiful richness and texture. Drink or hold."                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      

"The 2009 Fabius is a bit of a mystery, since Syrah is a variety that generally does well in warmer years. The fruit is very much on the ripe side, with prominent notes of blackberry jam, licorice, spices and alcohol. At the same time, the tannins are surprisingly hard. Something isn’t quite right in the wine’s overall sense of balance. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2014". 

"The 2007 Fabius reveals layers of dark, introspective fruit. There is plenty of richness and depth in the glass, although slight suggestions of heat come through from time to time. Hints of mocha, chocolate and spices inform the finish. Fabius is Syrah from vineyards in the Sant’Antimo appellation just outside the classic Brunello producing zone. Though unquestionably a beautiful wine, varietal character doesn’t seem to be a priority as it is nowhere to be found. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019."

"The 2006 Fabius (Syrah) is a gorgeous, medium-bodied wine loaded with dark fruit, smoke and earthiness. Previous vintages have been more concentrated in style, and the 2006 seems to give more attention to finesse rather than sheer heft. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2014." 

Like Ateo, Ciacci’s 2005 Fabius (100% Syrah) is another rich, concentrated wine loaded with sweet dark fruit. The wine has a lovely, plush mouthfeel but in this vintage it doesn’t have the level of varietal expression or complexity that might allow it to merit a higher score. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2017. Proprietor Paolo Bianchini is upbeat about his 2003 Brunellos. It is the first vintage in which he had the tools to perform a cold soak, which he feels was especially critical in preserving as much freshness as possible in the wines. For the Brunellos, fermentation and maceration lasted several weeks and the wines were aged in cask."

"The deeply-colored 2003 Fabius (100% Syrah) is a powerful wine. It exudes masses of unabashedly super-to-over-ripe dark jammy fruit, toasted oak, licorice and black currant flavors with terrific concentration on the palate, great length and just enough freshness to keep things in balance. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2018". 

"The 2001 Fabius is 100% Syrah, and its inspiration seems more Australian than French in the sweet, ultra-ripe fruit, blackberry and coconut nose, broad and luxurious palate, and supple, plush close. Drink: 2004-2014." 

"There are only 15 barrels (approximately 375 cases) of the 100% Syrah 1998 Sant'Antimo Favius, which may be the finest Italian Syrah I have tasted. An opaque purple color is followed by a classic bouquet of bacon fat, blackberry liqueur, and cassis. This monstrous fruit bomb is unctuous, thick, and unbelievably concentrated. The wine's new oak aging has been absorbed by its formidable concentration of fruit. Drink this exuberant, in your face offering over the next 5-7 years."

A rare look at Syrah from the cool Montalcino climate, the 2019 Sant'Antimo Fabius is packed tight with blackberry and black cherry along with spice, sweet tobacco and smoked bacon. There's a lot going on aromatically speaking, but the wine stays clear of the heavier black pepper or cured leather aromas that you often get in New World Syrah. I love the soft texture, freshness and tension that this extremely well-priced wine exhibits. Production is 13,000 bottles.

A pure expression of Syrah, the Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona 2016 Sant'Antimo Fabius is an impressive expression of the grape. Syrah always tends to show opulent richness and succulence, and although you certainly get that here, I'm also reminded of its Tuscan roots. It tends to be more compact and linear overall. This wine pulls in opposite directions, and that's what makes it most interesting. You will recognize those varietal characteristics for sure, but they are ultimately overridden by the wine's Tuscan identity. With 8,000 bottles made, this is terrific value.

"Lovely aromas of chocolate, game and blackberries. Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a chewy finish. Needs bottle age. Cool, new wine. Syrah. Best after 2002. 550 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                                    

"Smoky, ripe and rich, with plenty of berry and meaty aromas. Full-bodied Syrah, soft and caressing, with lovely fruit and subtle yet interesting character. Best after 2002. 700 cases made." -B.S. 

"Very pretty, with blackberry, spice and light meat aromas. Full-bodied, with a thick and rich palate, yet soft and round. Really delicious Syrah. Ciacci always makes excellent reds. Best from 2004 through 2009. 690 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                                                                                                                                     

"Ripe, fruity wine with soft and silky tannins and plenty of cedar and berry character. Turns to coffee and tobacco on the finish. Good shot of new wood. Best after 2004. 550 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                 

"Interesting meaty, spicy berry character in this wine. Full-bodied, with round and caressing tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Subtle for a Syrah. Drink now. 650 cases made." -B.S.                               

"Subtle aromas of blackberry, chocolate and cherry follow through to a medium-bodied palate, with soft tannins and a fruity, spicy aftertaste. Syrah. Best after 2007. 650 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                          

"Big, juicy and caressing, with loads of ripe fruit, plum and blackberry character. Full, long and delicious. Hard not to drink now. Syrah. Best after 2009. 660 cases made." -B.S.                                                                      

"Medium- to full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a mineral, slightly cedar undertone. Chewy. Slightly one-dimensional. Needs some bottle age to develop and open. Syrah. Best after 2010. 665 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                                   

"Plum and cherry aromas and flavors, with a full body and silky tannins. A little too much wood showing at the moment, dulling the fruit, but attractive all the same. Syrah. Best after 2010. 660 cases made. " -B.S.                                                                                             

"A wine that shows lots of raisin fruit, with meat and mahogany character. You can really see the influence of the hot growing season. Round and ripe, with fruit-coated tannins. Best after 2011. 550 cases made. " -B.S.                                                                                               

"Laced with cherry, strawberry and licorice flavors, this red is compact and almost chewy in texture, with a bright structure and a long, tobacco-tinged finish. Drink now through 2020. 650 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                               

"Aromas of dried fruits with hints of smoked meat and walnuts. Full body, with loads of fruit and a juicy, velvety palate. Intense finish. This is a pure Syrah with beautiful richness and texture. Drink or hold."                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      

"The 2009 Fabius is a bit of a mystery, since Syrah is a variety that generally does well in warmer years. The fruit is very much on the ripe side, with prominent notes of blackberry jam, licorice, spices and alcohol. At the same time, the tannins are surprisingly hard. Something isn’t quite right in the wine’s overall sense of balance. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2014". 

"The 2007 Fabius reveals layers of dark, introspective fruit. There is plenty of richness and depth in the glass, although slight suggestions of heat come through from time to time. Hints of mocha, chocolate and spices inform the finish. Fabius is Syrah from vineyards in the Sant’Antimo appellation just outside the classic Brunello producing zone. Though unquestionably a beautiful wine, varietal character doesn’t seem to be a priority as it is nowhere to be found. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019."

"The 2006 Fabius (Syrah) is a gorgeous, medium-bodied wine loaded with dark fruit, smoke and earthiness. Previous vintages have been more concentrated in style, and the 2006 seems to give more attention to finesse rather than sheer heft. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2014." 

Like Ateo, Ciacci’s 2005 Fabius (100% Syrah) is another rich, concentrated wine loaded with sweet dark fruit. The wine has a lovely, plush mouthfeel but in this vintage it doesn’t have the level of varietal expression or complexity that might allow it to merit a higher score. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2017. Proprietor Paolo Bianchini is upbeat about his 2003 Brunellos. It is the first vintage in which he had the tools to perform a cold soak, which he feels was especially critical in preserving as much freshness as possible in the wines. For the Brunellos, fermentation and maceration lasted several weeks and the wines were aged in cask."

"The deeply-colored 2003 Fabius (100% Syrah) is a powerful wine. It exudes masses of unabashedly super-to-over-ripe dark jammy fruit, toasted oak, licorice and black currant flavors with terrific concentration on the palate, great length and just enough freshness to keep things in balance. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2018". 

"The 2001 Fabius is 100% Syrah, and its inspiration seems more Australian than French in the sweet, ultra-ripe fruit, blackberry and coconut nose, broad and luxurious palate, and supple, plush close. Drink: 2004-2014." 

"There are only 15 barrels (approximately 375 cases) of the 100% Syrah 1998 Sant'Antimo Favius, which may be the finest Italian Syrah I have tasted. An opaque purple color is followed by a classic bouquet of bacon fat, blackberry liqueur, and cassis. This monstrous fruit bomb is unctuous, thick, and unbelievably concentrated. The wine's new oak aging has been absorbed by its formidable concentration of fruit. Drink this exuberant, in your face offering over the next 5-7 years."

A rare look at Syrah from the cool Montalcino climate, the 2019 Sant'Antimo Fabius is packed tight with blackberry and black cherry along with spice, sweet tobacco and smoked bacon. There's a lot going on aromatically speaking, but the wine stays clear of the heavier black pepper or cured leather aromas that you often get in New World Syrah. I love the soft texture, freshness and tension that this extremely well-priced wine exhibits. Production is 13,000 bottles.

A pure expression of Syrah, the Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona 2016 Sant'Antimo Fabius is an impressive expression of the grape. Syrah always tends to show opulent richness and succulence, and although you certainly get that here, I'm also reminded of its Tuscan roots. It tends to be more compact and linear overall. This wine pulls in opposite directions, and that's what makes it most interesting. You will recognize those varietal characteristics for sure, but they are ultimately overridden by the wine's Tuscan identity. With 8,000 bottles made, this is terrific value.

"Lovely aromas of chocolate, game and blackberries. Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a chewy finish. Needs bottle age. Cool, new wine. Syrah. Best after 2002. 550 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                                    

"Smoky, ripe and rich, with plenty of berry and meaty aromas. Full-bodied Syrah, soft and caressing, with lovely fruit and subtle yet interesting character. Best after 2002. 700 cases made." -B.S. 

"Very pretty, with blackberry, spice and light meat aromas. Full-bodied, with a thick and rich palate, yet soft and round. Really delicious Syrah. Ciacci always makes excellent reds. Best from 2004 through 2009. 690 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                                                                                                                                     

"Ripe, fruity wine with soft and silky tannins and plenty of cedar and berry character. Turns to coffee and tobacco on the finish. Good shot of new wood. Best after 2004. 550 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                 

"Interesting meaty, spicy berry character in this wine. Full-bodied, with round and caressing tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Subtle for a Syrah. Drink now. 650 cases made." -B.S.                               

"Subtle aromas of blackberry, chocolate and cherry follow through to a medium-bodied palate, with soft tannins and a fruity, spicy aftertaste. Syrah. Best after 2007. 650 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                          

"Big, juicy and caressing, with loads of ripe fruit, plum and blackberry character. Full, long and delicious. Hard not to drink now. Syrah. Best after 2009. 660 cases made." -B.S.                                                                      

"Medium- to full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a mineral, slightly cedar undertone. Chewy. Slightly one-dimensional. Needs some bottle age to develop and open. Syrah. Best after 2010. 665 cases made." -B.S.                                                                                                   

"Plum and cherry aromas and flavors, with a full body and silky tannins. A little too much wood showing at the moment, dulling the fruit, but attractive all the same. Syrah. Best after 2010. 660 cases made. " -B.S.                                                                                             

"A wine that shows lots of raisin fruit, with meat and mahogany character. You can really see the influence of the hot growing season. Round and ripe, with fruit-coated tannins. Best after 2011. 550 cases made. " -B.S.                                                                                               

"Aromas of dried fruits with hints of smoked meat and walnuts. Full body, with loads of fruit and a juicy, velvety palate. Intense finish. This is a pure Syrah with beautiful richness and texture. Drink or hold."                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      

"The 2009 Fabius is a bit of a mystery, since Syrah is a variety that generally does well in warmer years. The fruit is very much on the ripe side, with prominent notes of blackberry jam, licorice, spices and alcohol. At the same time, the tannins are surprisingly hard. Something isn’t quite right in the wine’s overall sense of balance. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2014". 

"The 2007 Fabius reveals layers of dark, introspective fruit. There is plenty of richness and depth in the glass, although slight suggestions of heat come through from time to time. Hints of mocha, chocolate and spices inform the finish. Fabius is Syrah from vineyards in the Sant’Antimo appellation just outside the classic Brunello producing zone. Though unquestionably a beautiful wine, varietal character doesn’t seem to be a priority as it is nowhere to be found. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019."

"The 2006 Fabius (Syrah) is a gorgeous, medium-bodied wine loaded with dark fruit, smoke and earthiness. Previous vintages have been more concentrated in style, and the 2006 seems to give more attention to finesse rather than sheer heft. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2014." 

Like Ateo, Ciacci’s 2005 Fabius (100% Syrah) is another rich, concentrated wine loaded with sweet dark fruit. The wine has a lovely, plush mouthfeel but in this vintage it doesn’t have the level of varietal expression or complexity that might allow it to merit a higher score. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2017. Proprietor Paolo Bianchini is upbeat about his 2003 Brunellos. It is the first vintage in which he had the tools to perform a cold soak, which he feels was especially critical in preserving as much freshness as possible in the wines. For the Brunellos, fermentation and maceration lasted several weeks and the wines were aged in cask."

"The deeply-colored 2003 Fabius (100% Syrah) is a powerful wine. It exudes masses of unabashedly super-to-over-ripe dark jammy fruit, toasted oak, licorice and black currant flavors with terrific concentration on the palate, great length and just enough freshness to keep things in balance. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2018". 

"The 2001 Fabius is 100% Syrah, and its inspiration seems more Australian than French in the sweet, ultra-ripe fruit, blackberry and coconut nose, broad and luxurious palate, and supple, plush close. Drink: 2004-2014." 

"There are only 15 barrels (approximately 375 cases) of the 100% Syrah 1998 Sant'Antimo Favius, which may be the finest Italian Syrah I have tasted. An opaque purple color is followed by a classic bouquet of bacon fat, blackberry liqueur, and cassis. This monstrous fruit bomb is unctuous, thick, and unbelievably concentrated. The wine's new oak aging has been absorbed by its formidable concentration of fruit. Drink this exuberant, in your face offering over the next 5-7 years."

A rare look at Syrah from the cool Montalcino climate, the 2019 Sant'Antimo Fabius is packed tight with blackberry and black cherry along with spice, sweet tobacco and smoked bacon. There's a lot going on aromatically speaking, but the wine stays clear of the heavier black pepper or cured leather aromas that you often get in New World Syrah. I love the soft texture, freshness and tension that this extremely well-priced wine exhibits. Production is 13,000 bottles.