My wife bought this bottle at the winery in Sonoma about 3-4 years ago for $36. Viansa is run by members of the Sebastiani family and concentrate on Cal-Ital wines (I had their 1996 Prindello in 2002). In this respect they were ahead of the curve. They do a fantastic job on packaging their wines. This is probably one of the largest and heaviest bottles you will find and it comes with a metal dogtag around the neck.

The wine inside was less impressive. I held this bottle too long. Notes of raspberry and earthy notes but fruit seemed faded. Light to medium bodied with little tannic structure. I didn't mind drinking it though. A pleasant quaffer but with little depth. 84 points.

VM

VM,

Have you had a chance to try any other Cal-Itals from Sebastiani (or any of their other labels)? We had Sebastiani's 97 Sangiovese and 97 Barbera, both from Dry Creek Valley, when we were in Sonoma in 2001 and enjoyed both of them. I do not have any notes from them, but did bring one of each back. I have been meaning to drink them over the latt year ot two but have never did pull the trigger on them. I am also worried that they may be a little past their prime. I guess that their is only one way to know for sure...

Rob

rob,

I have not had any Cal/Ital wines from Sebastiani but have had a few others from Viansa. They make a Dolcetto and an Italian dessert wine which I have also had.

VM