The 2019 'San Valentino' is high-energy, striking the classic Bea balance between wild and refined, powerfully elegant. A blend of 40% Sagrantino, 40% Sangiovese, and 20% Montepulicano, it spent a lengthy 52 days macerating on its skins — yet expertly avoids presenting as overly tannic. Fermented and aged two years in steel, it then was transferred to large Slavonian casks for two additional years. Sagrantino even in such a small proportion dominates the nose — providing the luscious blue and black fruit, crisp cassis, turned earth, and wintry notes — though the Sangiovese is close behind, with a smoky sanguine note and a plethora of woodsy and exotic spices. A burst of black cherries, allspice and clove give way to dark chocolate and mint. This displays textures of pure silk, lifted and energetic, with depths of ripe wild berry fruits and a core of stimulating acidity that keeps the palate reeling. The 2019 finishes long and lightly structured, with grippy tannins that tug at the cheeks. However, through it all, the final note is freshness.