1999 Moschioni Rosso Celtico Friuli

(94 points) A prodigious offering is the 1999 Celtico Rosso (a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot) and the 1999 Pignolo (100% Pignolo). It may be expensive, but it is a blockbuster effort of extraordinary richness and intensity. The 1999 Celtico Rosso, which spent 15 months in French oak before being bottled unfiltered, came in at an amazing 15% alcohol, all of which is hidden by layers of concentrated blackberry and creme de cassis fruit. Smoky graphite, floral, and pain grille notes emerge from the bouquet. The wine possesses a terrific entry, a multi-dimensional mid-palate, and a finish that lasts for nearly 40 seconds. This corpulent, concentrated yet incredibly well-balanced heavyweight should drink well for 15 years. It is a tour de force. Wine Advocate #137 Oct 2001