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Tenuta di Arceno 2013 Arcanum Toscana IGT 14.5% $100
This very attractive and fragrant wine composed of predominantly Cabernet Franc (73% - from 16 different blocks of vines, along with 17% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon) needs some time to open, despite the fact that it is showing decidedly tertiary aromas. While the aromas are immediately inviting, the palate initially feels a bit tough and reserved. The Franc gives notes of tobacco leaf - even cigar wrapper - along with dried cranberries and cherries. There's also a very evident scorched earth note. So Italian, so Tuscan, this is a wine for a table set with hearty fare. The tannins and acidity hold equal voices here. There is a toughness to both that give an angularity to the wine, despite its full body and ample alcohol - the latter thanks to the Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. The big positive is that there is no obvious mouth-coating glycerol and the high-ish abv is well contained. The finish lingers with dried sage and savory spices. It's a dramatic, meaty wine that is worth a try when you want a steak knife sort of wine in your glass. Drinking well now, this is hitting its autumn.
Drink: 2020-23