
If making good wines in bad years is the true test of a top producer, then Barone Ricasoli passed the test with flying colors in 2002; this wine features a ruby red color, dark berries and floral nose and abundant pleasing flavors of ripe red and dark fruit and smooth tannins; match with a variety of meats including Shanghai meat dishes with rich brown sauces and roasted Beijing meat dishes; established in 1141 by the Ricasoli family and returned to family ownership in 1993; the estate is run by the 32nd Barone Ricasoli, Francesco Ricasoli, producing award-winning wines that are among Italy's finest.

John H. Isacs