Castello di Bolgheri Castello di Bolgheri Varvàra 2020 750ml

A linear and vivd red with black-cherry and orange-peel aromas and flavors. Fresh flowers, too. Medium to full body, chewy tannins and a bright finish. Give it a year or two, but already very pretty. Drink or hold.

This red is all about balance and texture, creating an ideal foil for its black currant, black cherry, licorice, rosemary and iron aromas and flavors. Refined tannins lend grip on the lingering aftertaste. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2025 through 2038. 6,000 cases made, 1,000 cases imported. (Bruce Sanderson)

The 2021 Bolgheri Rosso Varvàra shows inky black fruit and rich concentration with a hint of black olive or caper flower. This is another of the historic value wines of Bolgheri that is generous, thickly layered but also accessible. There is a hint of spice on the close that recalls black pepper and chili flake. The blend is 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, with 90,000 bottles made. (Monica Larner)

Displaying a saturated magenta/purple color, the 2021 Varvara is 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot. A lush cologne lifts from the glass, with notes of polished leather, blackcurrant, sour cherry, menthol, and rosewater. Full-bodied, it offers refined tannins, a rounded mouthfeel, and a well-balanced evenness through a rather long finish. It has a lot of elegance and is already showing beautifully. Drink 2024-2040. (Audrey Frick)

Here’s a quality, easy-to-drink blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The 2020 Bolgheri Rosso Varvàra is integrated and smooth with no rough spots. Black fruit, pressed rose, earth and spice are carefully woven together. All elements are in place, and the wine is available at a very attractive price point.

An expressive red, boasting black currant, blackberry, plum, iron and tobacco flavors, with firm, dusty tannins lending support. Fresh and balanced, with plenty of length and staying power. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2028. 6,000 cases made, 1,000 cases imported. (Bruce Sanderson)