Ruffino Modus 2021

Aromas of crushed stones, dark berries and blueberries follow through to a medium to full body with creamy tannins and a medium-chewy finish. Chocolate at the end. Sangiovese, cabernet sauvignon and merlot. Two or three years of bottle age will bring this around nicely.

A blend of 44% Sangiovese, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon and 19% Merlot, the 2019 Modus is a very contemporary wine with soft extraction, lots of dark fruit and gentle tannins spread over a full-bodied style. You get sunshine and warm Tuscany in the glass, and although this blend of grapes tells you less about its territory, it gives you a generous glass to pair with grilled meats. Black cherry is followed by pencil shaving, sweet earth and barbecue spice. Only the 15% alcohol content is a little too much.

A rich, densely textured red, boasting black currant, black cherry, blackberry, cedar, iron, tobacco and spice aromas and flavors. Starts out supple, gaining traction with dense tannins by the lengthy finish. Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2033. 12,000 cases made, 9,000 cases imported.