I may have drunk more Sandrone than most here, as at one stage, I bought sixty assorted cases of the 1996 and 1997 Cannubi and Le Vigne. Sold most off quickly but kept ten cases. They are still going strong, particularly the 1996 Cannubi and 1997 Le Vigne.
These wines walk a tightrope between a slightly more opulent style and the traditional. Definitely did not go to the dark side, but he managed to incorporate an acceptable amount of shade into his wines. Still a big fan.
I did taste a couple of times with Monica Larner at the Wine Enthusiast.
Apart from being incredibly nice, she seemed a very careful taster and meticulous note taker. I can’t say I really got a take on her preferences, perhaps a little more tolerant of modern wines than I am, but then, most people are.