Planeta Sicilia Menfi Burdese 2016

93 points Monica Larner (Wine Advocate): "With ample intensity and definition, this wine shows the power of two Bordeaux grapes, 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Cabernet Franc, with the softness and sunny sweetness you might expect of a warm wine territory such as Sicily. The Planeta 2016 Sicilia Menfi Burdese shows a dark garnet appearance and medium rich concentration. Dried spice, scorched earth and black fruit appear on the bouquet. There is a dry, almost dusty quality to the tannins that are present but without any noticeable astringency. Drink: 2021-2026. (Nov 2021)"

93 points Wine Spectator: "This has a lovely interplay between the core of ripe red and black currant fruit and a savory streak of tar, smoke and dried dill. Features fine-grained tannins that are creamy and well-knit, with pretty floral and licorice accents lingering on the dark, juicy finish. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2031. (9/30/23)"

91 points Wine Enthusiast : "Vanilla, toasted coconut and old leather mingle with blueberries and blackberries on the nose before a palate that offers more berries and leather and chocolate, held together with relaxed tannins and a quiet but palpable heat. (Oct 2023)"

91 points Decanter: "Burdese means ‘from Bordeaux’ in the Sicilian dialect and refers to the blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Cabernet Franc - the Cabernet Sauvignon grown on a low, clayey plot while the Cabernet Franc is from chalky soils at around 500m above sea level. It's vinified in stainless steel then matured for 16 months in new French oak barriques. Chocolatey dark fruits with balsamic overtones and touches of pepper are matched by good acidity and tannic grip. Fresh, long and structured, it's a distinctly Sicilian take on Bordeaux, giving an extra dash of ripeness but not at the expense of balance. Drinking Window: 2022-2030. (Nov 2022)"