The 2016 Scipio combines leafy Cabernet Franc and breezy coastal Tuscany with great results. It has a delicious nose of black fruits, damp earth, a touch of dark chocolate and herbal scents, even a touch of seaweed. In the mouth it has plenty of intensity, polish, focus and grip. A stony quality tightens up the palate as it corkscrews through the core of black fruits, while currants, raspberry, chocolate, herbs and raspberry leaf dance around. There's a splash of coffee and peppery spice at the end and although it's a touch dry on the finish at present, it features persistent fresh acidity.

This has a velvet-softness, its glowing fruit avoiding the herbaceousness with which Cabernet Franc typically adorns itself.

The 2016 Scipio, the estate’s top Cabernet Franc, is impressive. Deep and powerful in the glass, the 2016 packs a serious punch. Dark macerated cherries in liqueur, spice, leather, sweet pipe tobacco and dried herbs are some of the many nuances that come alive in the glass. Broad and resonant, the Scipio shows the darker, more brooding side of Franc off to great effect. Hopefully the tannins will soften from here, as there is quite a bit of potential. The 2016 is one of the finest wines I have tasted from Sette Cieli.