The 2012 Contrada P is my favorite wine among Andrea Franchetti's batch of new single-vineyard releases. This is a spectacular expression of Nerello Mascalese (aged in large oak casks for 18 months) that speaks in a loud, clear and beautifully melodious voice. Contrada Porcaria sees 80-year-old vines planted at 600 to 700 meters above sea level. The soils consist of thin layers of lava deposit and sandy ash. The mineral definition here is excellent thanks to flinty tones of crushed granite and pencil shaving. But there is a good amount of soft fruit as well, especially Morello cherry, dried blackberry and cassis. This wine spoke to me. I loved its vigor, personality and polished feel.