The blend, albeit varying slightly depending on vintage conditions, is 85% Sangiovese, 10% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. The best selections are blended and aged 1 year in oak (80% in Slavonian barrels, 20% in barrique) + at least 6 months in the bottle, achieving a graceful balance of voluptuous berry tones and flexible yet sturdy backbone. Dark ruby in color, its bouquet of leather, earth, herbs, black cherries, licorice and plums is confirmed on the medium to full-bodied palate – round, spicy, elegant, attractively fruity and extremely versatile with any fare from pasta or risotto, to meat, fowl and cheese. Moreover, the Empsons' judicious pricing policy makes it "consistently one of Italy's better values". Food-friendly, pocket-friendly, all-around simpatico.

• 2008 Rosso (search item no. 117066)

The superlative characteristics of chosen locations and strict quality parameters make for the wine's depth, structure, character and longevity.

Terrain includes compact, very fine-textured limestone, at an altitude of 400-450 meters above sea level; rocky, clayey/calcareous areas, also at altitudes around 400 meters; and clayey/siliceous/calcareous soil, at an altitude of 250-300 meters: a cross-section of Tuscany's best.