EMIDIO PEPE 2003 MONTEPULCIANO D'ABRUZZO

This is no slouch, it is a little riper and richer, with balanced earth and funk than the more austere 2000 vintage, but in a very pleasing way. It is more like that over eager friend who you end up loving because they are just always down for whatever.

As you may recall 2003 was a very hot and difficult year and, for many winemakers, was a bit of a wash out. Tasting the results of an incredibly talented winemaker's vintage is so fascinating, also it happens to be my daughters birth year so I am doubly interested.