James Suckling & Zachys present
Tuesday, February 11, 2014 City Winery 155 Varick Street, New York City
SAVE THE DATE! MORE Exclusive Wine Events at City Winery from James Suckling & Zachys!
Tuesday, March 11th The Great Wines of Bordeaux This will be an unprecedented opportunity for Bordeaux lovers everywhere to come to New York and try over 100 mature, affordable Bordeaux, meet and talk with over 50 owners and representatives from the Chateaux and understand what has made Bordeaux one of the greatest wine producing regions in the world.
Tuesday May 6th The 3 B’s Of Italy: Barolo, Barbaresco and Brunello di Montalcino Ironically, 3 of the most prestigious red wine producing regions of Italy are start with the letter B. We will have a who’s who lineup of some of Piedmont and Montalcino’s finest producers on hand to walk you through their noble reds. Come taste for yourself to learn why these are 3 of the most globally recognized red wine regions of the world.
For more information visit zachys.com
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zachys
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WINE AND LIQUOR, INC.
SUPER TUSCANY– The Start Of Something Great!!! 2014 could not be getting off to a better start for us than by co-hosting, with James Suckling, one of the finest Super Tuscan events New York City has ever seen!!
When James approached us last year with the concept of a 3 part tasting series in the 1st half of 2014, where we would feature the best-of-the-best from Italy and Bordeaux, the answer was simple...YES, YES, YES!!! I can think of no better way to kick off this tasting series than to feature the premier wines of Tuscany through SUPER TUSCANY. We are here tonight to show you some of the finest flagship efforts from 50+ producers; spanning from Chianti Classico out to the Tuscan coast of Bolgheri. To quote James, “...A wine that I rate 90 points or more is outstanding (A), and an outstanding purchase. If I rate a wine 95 points or more (A+), it is a must buy...” jamessuckling.com Tonight we have surrounded you with ALL A’s and A+’s...You could almost say we have created our own Super Tuscan Dean’s List with a room full of “outstanding” and “must buy” Tuscan wines. For the last 20 years, Zachys has taken great pride in the fact that we have one of the most extensive Italian wine selections in America. Italian food & wine culture is a HUGE part of what and who we are...so to do an event of this magnitude with the emphasis being on the-best-of-the-best from Tuscany was a natural for us. Each and every year the planning that goes into an evening like this makes us wonder... “Are we crazy?” “Why do we do this?”
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But when we open the doors and see our guests interact with the wineries, it makes it all worthwhile!!! In addition, at the end of the event as the tired winemakers are all packing up and heading out their final comments are always—”Best consumer tasting ever...Be sure to count us in for next year!” We want all of our guests to leave this event with a lasting memory and that “WOW” effect. What better way to do that than by giving you a great product discount on the wines you taste tonight.
A 7% Discount on any purchase of 6 bottles or more A 15% Discount on any purchase of 12 bottles or more This is the discount you will receive on ALL wines being poured tonight. So, besides getting an opportunity to indulge in some of the finest Italian wines in the marketplace, if you place an order before you leave tonight (or in the next week), you will also get a chance to save big! So, enjoy yourselves tonight and take advantage of this “once in a lifetime” opportunity to meet and taste with some of the biggest names in the wine world today. All my best, Andrew McMurray
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Why We Are Here Tonight This is the first in a series of wine events in New York City under the moniker of James Suckling Zachys Presents, and it underlines my belief that the excitement about Super Tuscan wines is entirely justified. Tuscany makes so many amazing wines that are not labeled with lofty appellations and are made from an array of grape types, both indigenous and international. The Antinoris and their distant relatives (think of such wines as Solaia, Tignanello and Sassicaia) essentially created the category in the 1970s when they released commercial bottlings of wines that were outside the boundaries of official appellations. In fact, they labeled the wines as simple table wines. That’s all changed now with the inclusion of such wines in the all-encompassing Indicazione geografica tipica or IGT designation, and in specific appellations such as Bolgheri-Sassicaia. But the name Super Tuscan and the philosophy behind it continue because many Tuscan wine producers make some of their best wines without the confining rules and regulations for viticulture and winemaking created by a bureaucratic, inefficient government. The Super Tuscan category continues to thrive and to attract buyers around the world, despite some critics claiming it no longer matters in the world of Italian wines. Taste the dozens and dozens of wines this evening and see what I mean. You won’t be disappointed. The objective of this tasting is to focus wine lovers’ attention on outstanding Super Tuscan wines. Some of the participating wineries have brought some traditional wines such as Chianti Classico, but for the most part the wines being poured are all Super Tuscans, from fabulous pure sangioveses to blends of international varietals.
I hope you enjoy the event. Let me know how you like the wines during the tasting. James Suckling
Photo: Alessandro Moggi
Most are from the most recent four vintages and are widely available. Some of the highlights include rich 2011 merlots, racy 2010 sangioveses and structured 2008 reds from Bolgheri. However, there are many, many other outstanding wines. In fact, I scored all the wines at the tasting 90 points or more.
“Bringing Beauty to Wine Drinking”
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Tasting Map at City Winery
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Wineries (Alphabetically) Wine
Table Page
Agricola Amantis..................................................................................1 18 Tenuta Argentiera.................................................................................2 19 Marchesi Antinori..................................................................................4 20 Argiano...................................................................................................5 21 Castello Banfi.........................................................................................6 22 Azienda Agricola Baracchi................................................................7 23 Barone Ricasoli......................................................................................8 24 Bibi Graetz (Testamatta)......................................................................9 25 Tenuta di Biserno..................................................................................10 26 Castello di Bolgheri...............................................................................3 27 Il Borro....................................................................................................11 28 Caiarossa..............................................................................................12 29 Capezzana...........................................................................................13 30 Fattoria Casaloste................................................................................14 31 Castiglion del Bosco............................................................................15 32 Cecchi...................................................................................................16 33 Tenuta I Collazzi....................................................................................52 34 Empson..................................................................................................17 35 Fabrizio Dionisio....................................................................................18 36 Tenuta di Castiglioni (Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi)...........................54 37 Castello di Gabbiano.........................................................................19 38 Gagliole.................................................................................................20 39 Tenuta La Badiola................................................................................21 40 La Massa................................................................................................22 41 Fattoria La Torre....................................................................................23 42 Azienda Agricola Leuta......................................................................24 43 Livernano/Casalvento.........................................................................25 44 Tenuta Luce della Vite........................................................................51 45 Fattoria di Magliano............................................................................26 46 Il Molino di Grace.................................................................................27 47 Castello di Monsanto..........................................................................28 48 Monteverro............................................................................................29 49 Castello di Nipozzano (Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi)........................50 50 Nittardi.................................................................................................. 30 51 Orma......................................................................................................31 52 Ornellaia................................................................................................55 53 Petrolo....................................................................................................32 54 Pianirossi................................................................................................33 55 Fattoria di Piazzano ............................................................................34 56 Podernuovo a Palazzone...................................................................35 57 Poggio la Noce....................................................................................36 58 Principe Corsini.....................................................................................37 59 Castello di Querceto ......................................................................... 38 60 Renieri....................................................................................................39 61 Riecine...................................................................................................40 62 Rocca delle Macie..............................................................................41 63 Agricola San Felice .............................................................................42 64 Tenuta San Guido (Sassicaia)............................................................49 65 Tenuta Sette Ponti................................................................................31 66 Terrabianca.......................................................................................... 43 67 Castello del Terriccio.......................................................................... 44 68 Tua Rita ..................................................................................................45 69 Castello Vicchiomaggio.....................................................................46 70 Fattoria Viticcio....................................................................................47 71 Volpaia................................................................................................. 48 72
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Wine (Alphabetically) Wine
Table Page
Amantis Toscana Goghi 2010..............................................................1 18 Amantis Toscana Iperione 2007.........................................................1 18 Argentiera Bolgheri Superiore 2010...................................................2 19 Argentiera Bolgheri Villa Donoratico 2010.......................................2 19 Argiano Solengo Toscana 2011..........................................................5 21 Argiano Toscana Non Confunditur 2011...........................................5 21 Argiano Toscana Suolo 2010...............................................................5 21 Barone Ricasoli Chianti Classico Castello di Brolio 2010................8 24 Barone Ricasoli Toscana Casalferro 2010.........................................8 24 Bibi Graetz Toscana Colore 2008.......................................................9 25 Bibi Graetz Soffocone di Vincigliata 2011.........................................9 25 Bibi Graetz Toscana Testamatta 2010................................................9 25 Caiarossa Toscana 2004.....................................................................12 29 Caiarossa Toscana 2009.....................................................................12 29 Caiarossa Toscana Pergolaia 2009..................................................12 29 Capezzana Carmignano Trefiano Riserva 2008.............................13 30 Capezzana Carmignano Villa di Capezzana 2008.......................13 30 Capezzana Toscana Ghiaie della Furba 2007...............................13 30 Casaloste Chianti Classico Don Vincenzo Riserva 2009...............14 31 Casaloste Toscana Inversus 2009......................................................14 31 Casalvento Toscana Janus 2008.......................................................25 44 Castello Banfi Toscana Belnero 2010.................................................6 22 Castello Banfi Sant’Antimo Excelsus 1997.........................................6 22 Castello Banfi Toscana Summus 2010................................................6 22 Castello del Terriccio Toscana 2006................................................ 44 68 Castello del Terriccio Toscana Lupicaia 2006............................... 44 68 Castello del Terriccio Toscana Tassinaia 2007............................... 44 68 Castello di Bolgheri Bolgheri Superiore 2010....................................3 27 Castello di Bolgheri Bolgheri Varvara 2010......................................3 27 Castello di Gabbiano Toscana Alleanza 2008...............................19 38 Castello di Gabbiano Toscana Alleanza 2009...............................19 38 Castello di Gabbiano Toscana Alleanza 2010...............................19 38 Castello di Monsanto Chianti Classico II Poggio Riserva 2009....28 48 Castello di Monsanto Cabernet Sauvignon Toscana Nemo 2004............................................................................28 48 Castello di Monsanto Cabernet Sauvignon Toscana Nemo 2007............................................................................28 48 Castello di Nipozzano (Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi) Nipozzano Chianti Rufina Riserva 2010............................................50 50 Castello di Nipozzano (Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi) Toscana Mormoreto 2010...................................................................50 50 Castello di Querceto Chianti Classico Il Picchio Riserva 2009.... 38 60 Castello di Querceto Colli della Toscana Centrale Il Sole di Alessandro 2007.................................................. 38 60 Castello di Querceto Colli della Toscana Centrale La Corte 2007...................................................................... 38 60 Castello Vicchiomaggio Chianti Classico Vigna La Prima Riserva 2010..............................................................46 70 Castello Vicchiomaggio Toscana FSM 2009...................................46 70 Castello Vicchiomaggio Toscana Ripa delle More 2010..............46 70 Castiglion del Bosco Toscana Daniero 2011....................................15 32
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Wine (Alphabetically) Wine
Table Page
Castiglion del Bosco Toscana Prima Pietra 2009............................15 32 Castiglion del Bosco Toscana Prima Pietra 2010............................15 32 Cecchi Morellino di Scansano Val Delle Rose Riserva 2009.........16 33 Cecchi Toscana Coevo 2009.............................................................16 33 Cecchi Toscana Coevo 2010.............................................................16 33 Collazzi Toscana 2009.........................................................................52 34 Collazzi Toscana 2010..........................................................................52 34 Fabrizio Dionisio Cortona Cuculaia 2009........................................18 36 Fabrizio Dionisio Cortona II Castagno 2010....................................18 36 Fattoria di Magliano Morellino di Scansano Heba 2011...............26 46 Fattoria di Magliano Maremma Toscana Perenzo 2010 ..............26 46 Fattoria di Magliano Maremma Toscana Poggio Bestiale 2010.....26 46 Fattoria di Piazzano Colli della Toscana Centrale Colorino 2009 ......................................................................34 56 Fattoria di Piazzano Colli della Toscana Centrale Toscana Merlot 2010 ..........................................................34 56 Fattoria di Piazzano Colli della Toscana Centrale Syrah 2009 ....34 56 Fattoria La Torre Toscana Esse 2010..................................................23 42 Fattoria La Torre Toscana Stringaio 2009.........................................23 42 Gagliole Chianti Classico Rubiolo 2011............................................20 39 Gagliole Colli della Toscana Centrale 2010....................................20 39 Gagliole Toscana Pecchia 2010........................................................20 39 Il Borro Toscana Pian di Nova 2011....................................................11 28 Il Borro Toscana 2010...........................................................................11 28 Il Borro Toscana Polissena 2010..........................................................11 28 Il Molino di Grace Toscana Gratius 2007.........................................27 47 Il Molino di Grace Toscana Gratius 2008.........................................27 47 La Massa Toscana 2011.......................................................................22 41 La Massa Toscana Giorgio Primo 2009.............................................22 41 La Massa Toscana Giorgio Primo 2011 ............................................22 41 Leuta Sangiovese Cortona Solitario di Leuta 2009........................24 43 Leuta Toscana 2010.............................................................................24 43 Livernano Toscana 2009.....................................................................25 44 Livernano Toscana Puro Sangue 2009.............................................25 44 Luce della Vite Toscana Luce 2004..................................................51 45 Luce della Vite Toscana Luce 2010...................................................51 45 Luce della Vite Toscana Lucente 2010.............................................51 45 Marchesi Antinori Bolgheri Il Bruciato 2011.......................................4 19 Marchesi Antinori Bolgheri Superiore Guado al Tasso 2010..........4 19 Marchesi Antinori Toscana Solaia 2007.............................................4 19 Monte Antico Toscana 2009..............................................................17 35 Monteverro Toscana 2010...................................................................29 49 Monteverro Toscana Terra di Monteverro 2010..............................29 49 Monteverro Toscana Tinata 2009......................................................29 49 Nittardi Chianti Classico Riserva 2009............................................. 30 51 Nittardi Maremma Toscana Ad Astra 2011..................................... 30 51 Nittardi Toscana Nectar Dei 2009.................................................... 30 51 Orma Toscana 2009............................................................................31 52 Orma Toscana 2010.............................................................................31 52 Ornellaia Bolgheri Le Serre Nuove 2011...........................................55 53 Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore 2010.....................................................55 53
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Wine (Alphabetically) Wine
Table Page
Petrolo Toscana Galatrona 2011.......................................................32 54 Petrolo Toscana Torrione 2011............................................................32 54 Pianirossi Maremma Toscana 2007...................................................33 55 Pianirossi Maremma Toscana 2008...................................................33 55 Pianirossi Maremma Toscana Solus 2008.........................................33 55 Podernuovo a Palazzone Toscana Sotirio 2009..............................35 57 Podernuovo a Palazzone Toscana Sotirio 2010..............................35 57 Podernuovo a Palazzone Toscana Therra 2010..............................35 57 Poggio la Noce Toscana Gigetto 2010............................................36 58 Poggio la Noce Toscana Gigio 2008................................................36 58 Poggio la Noce Toscana Gigio 2010................................................36 58 Principe Corsini Maremma Toscana Marsiliana 2008...................37 59 Principe Corsini Toscana Zac 2009...................................................37 59 Renieri Toscana Mega 2008...............................................................39 61 Renieri Toscana Re di Renieri 2009....................................................39 61 Renieri Toscana Regina di Renieri 2009...........................................39 61 Baracchi Toscana Ardito 2009............................................................7 23 Baracchi Toscana Ardito 2010............................................................7 23 Baracchi Toscana O’lillo 2012.............................................................7 23 Riecine Chianti Classico 2011............................................................40 62 Riecine Chianti Classico Riserva 2009..............................................40 62 Riecine Toscana La Gioia 2009.........................................................40 62 Rocca delle Macie Sangiovese Syrah Toscana Sasyr 2010..........41 63 Rocca delle Macie Toscana Roccato 2008....................................41 63 Rocca delle Macie Toscana Ser Gioveto 2008...............................41 63 Agricola San Felice Toscana Pugnitello 2008.................................42 64 Agricola San Felice Toscana Vigorello 2010...................................42 64 Supremus Toscana 2007......................................................................17 35 Tenuta di Biserno Toscana Biserno 2009...........................................10 26 Tenuta di Biserno Toscana Il Pino 2008.............................................10 26 Tenuta di Castiglioni (Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi) Toscana Castiglioni 2011.....................................................................54 37 Tenuta di Castiglioni (Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi) Toscana Giramonte 2009...................................................................54 37 Tenuta La Badiola Maremma Toscana 642 Riserva del Canapone 2009.......................................................21 40 Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri Sassicaia 2004......................................49 65 Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri Sassicaia 2010......................................49 65 Tenuta San Guido Toscana Guidalberto 2011................................49 65 Tenuta Sette Ponti Toscana Crognolo 2011.....................................31 66 Tenuta Sette Ponti Toscana Oreno 2011...........................................31 66 Terrabianca Toscana Campaccio 2009......................................... 43 67 Terrabianca Toscana Campaccio Selezione 2007....................... 43 67 Tua Rita Toscana Giusto di Notri 2009...............................................45 69 Tua Rita Toscana Giusto di Notri 2011...............................................45 69 Tua Rita Toscana Redigaffi 2011.........................................................45 69 Fattoria Viticcio Chianti Classico Riserva 2009...............................47 71 Fattoria Viticcio Toscana Monile 2009.............................................47 71 Fattoria Viticcio Toscana Prunaio 2010............................................47 71 Volpaia Chianti Classico Riserva 2009............................................ 48 72 Volpaia Toscana Balifico 2009.......................................................... 48 72 Volpaia Toscana Indue 2008............................................................ 48 72
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Wine (By Score) Wine
Table Page
99 Points
Bibi Graetz Toscana Colore 2008........................................................9 25 Petrolo Toscana Galatrona 2011........................................................32 54 Tua Rita Toscana Redigaffi 2011..........................................................45 69
98 Points
Bibi Graetz Toscana Testamatta 2010.................................................9 25 Luce della Vite Toscana Luce 2010....................................................51 45
97 Points
Marchesi Antinori Toscana Solaia 2007..............................................4 20 La Massa Toscana Giorgio Primo 2009..............................................22 41
96 Points
Barone Ricasoli Chianti Classico Castello di Brolio 2010.................8 24 Casaloste Toscana Inversus 2009.......................................................14 31 Castiglion del Bosco Toscana Prima Pietra 2009.............................15 32 Orma Toscana 2010..............................................................................31 52 Tenuta Sette Ponti Toscana Oreno 2011............................................31 66
95 Points
Caiarossa Toscana 2009......................................................................12 29 Collazzi Toscana 2010...........................................................................52 34 Fattoria di Piazzano Colli della Toscana Centrale Colorino 2009 .......................................................................34 56 Fattoria La Torre Toscana Esse 2010...................................................23 42 Gagliole Toscana Pecchia 2010.........................................................20 39 La Massa Toscana Giorgio Primo 2011..............................................22 41 Marchesi Antinori Bolgheri Superiore Guado al Tasso 2010...........4 20 Orma Toscana 2009.............................................................................31 52 Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore 2010......................................................55 53 Renieri Toscana Re di Renieri 2009.....................................................39 61 Tenuta di Biserno Toscana Biserno 2009............................................10 26 Tenuta di Castiglioni (Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi) Toscana Giramonte 2009....................................................................54 37 Tenuta Sette Ponti Toscana Crognolo 2011......................................31 66 Tua Rita Toscana Giusto di Notri 2011................................................45 69
94 Points
Barone Ricasoli Toscana Casalferro 2010..........................................8 24 Casaloste Chianti Classico Don Vincenzo Riserva 2009................14 31 Castello di Nipozzano (Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi) Toscana Mormoreto 2010....................................................................50 50 Il Borro Toscana 2010............................................................................11 28 Petrolo Toscana Torrione 2011.............................................................32 54 Renieri Toscana Mega 2008................................................................39 61 Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri Sassicaia 2004.......................................49 65 Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri Sassicaia 2010.......................................49 65 Fattoria Viticcio Chianti Classico Riserva 2009................................47 71 Fattoria Viticcio Toscana Monile 2009..............................................47 71 Fattoria Viticcio Toscana Prunaio 2010.............................................47 71
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jamessuckling.com
Wine (By Score) Wine
Table Page
93 Points
Argentiera Bolgheri Superiore 2010...................................................2 19 Argiano Solengo Toscana 2011..........................................................5 21 Argiano Toscana Non Confunditur 2011...........................................5 21 Caiarossa Toscana 2004.....................................................................12 29 Capezzana Toscana Ghiaie della Furba 2007...............................13 30 Castello Banfi Sant’Antimo Excelsus 1997.........................................6 22 Castello Banfi Toscana Summus 2010................................................6 22 Castello del Terriccio Toscana 2006................................................ 44 68 Castello del Terriccio Toscana Lupicaia 2006............................... 44 68 Castello di Gabbiano Toscana Alleanza 2009...............................19 28 Castello di Monsanto Chianti Classico II Poggio Riserva 2009....28 48 Castiglion del Bosco Toscana Prima Pietra 2010............................15 32 Cecchi Toscana Coevo 2009.............................................................16 33 Collazzi Toscana 2009.........................................................................52 34 Fabrizio Dionisio Cortona Cuculaia 2009........................................18 36 Fattoria di Magliano Maremma Toscana Poggio Bestiale 2010.....26 46 Fattoria di Piazzano Colli della Toscana Centrale Syrah 2009 ....34 56 Gagliole Colli della Toscana Centrale 2010....................................20 39 La Massa Toscana 2011.......................................................................22 41 Luce della Vite Toscana Lucente 2010.............................................51 45 Monteverro Toscana Tinata 2009......................................................29 49 Nittardi Chianti Classico Riserva 2009............................................. 30 51 Nittardi Toscana Nectar Dei 2009.................................................... 30 51 Ornellaia Bolgheri Le Serre Nuove 2011...........................................55 53 Pianirossi Maremma Toscana 2007...................................................33 55 Podernuovo a Palazzone Toscana Sotirio 2010..............................35 57 Principe Corsini Maremma Toscana Marsiliana 2008...................37 59 Principe Corsini Toscana Zac 2009...................................................37 59 Terrabianca Toscana Campaccio 2009......................................... 43 67 Volpaia Toscana Balifico 2009.......................................................... 48 72
92 Points
Amantis Toscana Iperione 2007..........................................................1 18 Argentiera Bolgheri Villa Donoratico 2010........................................2 19 Bibi Graetz Soffocone di Vincigliata 2011..........................................9 25 Caiarossa Toscana Pergolaia 2009...................................................12 29 Capezzana Carmignano Villa di Capezzana 2008........................13 30 Casalvento Toscana Janus 2008........................................................25 44 Castello del Terriccio Toscana Tassinaia 2007.................................44 68 Castello di Gabbiano Toscana Alleanza 2008................................19 38 Castello di Gabbiano Toscana Alleanza 2010................................19 38 Castello di Querceto Chianti Classico Il Picchio Riserva 2009......38 60 Castello di Querceto Colli della Toscana Centrale La Corte 2007........................................................................38 60 Castello Vicchiomaggio Chianti Classico Vigna La Prima Riserva 2010...............................................................46 70 Castello Vicchiomaggio Toscana FSM 2009....................................46 70 Castello Vicchiomaggio Toscana Ripa delle More 2010...............46 70 Castiglion del Bosco Toscana Daniero 2011.....................................15 32 Cecchi Morellino di Scansano Val Delle Rose Riserva 2009..........16 33 Fabrizio Dionisio Cortona II Castagno 2010.....................................18 36 Fattoria di Magliano Maremma Toscana Perenzo 2010 ...............26 46
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Wine (By Score) Wine
Table Page
92 Points (cont’d)
Fattoria di Piazzano Colli della Toscana Centrale Toscana Merlot 2010 ...........................................................34 56 Il Borro Toscana Polissena 2010...........................................................11 28 Il Molino di Grace Toscana Gratius 2007..........................................27 47 Livernano Toscana 2009......................................................................25 44 Luce della Vite Toscana Luce 2004...................................................51 45 Monteverro Toscana 2010....................................................................29 49 Pianirossi Maremma Toscana 2008....................................................33 55 Podernuovo a Palazzone Toscana Sotirio 2009...............................35 57 Podernuovo a Palazzone Toscana Therra 2010...............................35 57 Poggio la Noce Toscana Gigio 2010.................................................36 58 Renieri Toscana Regina di Renieri 2009............................................39 61 Baracchi Toscana Ardito 2010.............................................................7 23 Riecine Chianti Classico Riserva 2009...............................................40 62 Agricola San Felice Toscana Pugnitello 2008..................................42 64 Agricola San Felice Toscana Vigorello 2010....................................42 64 Tenuta di Biserno Toscana Il Pino 2008..............................................10 26 Tenuta di Castiglioni (Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi) Toscana Castiglioni 2011......................................................................54 37 Tenuta San Guido Toscana Guidalberto 2011.................................49 65 Tua Rita Toscana Giusto di Notri 2009................................................45 69 Volpaia Chianti Classico Riserva 2009..............................................48 72
91 Points
Amantis Toscana Goghi 2010..............................................................1 18 Argiano Toscana Suolo 2010...............................................................5 21 Capezzana Carmignano Trefiano Riserva 2008.............................13 30 Castello Banfi Toscana Belnero 2010.................................................6 22 Castello di Bolgheri Bolgheri Varvara 2010......................................3 27 Castello di Nipozzano (Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi) Nipozzano Chianti Rufina Riserva 2010............................................50 50 Castello di Querceto Colli della Toscana Centrale Il Sole di Alessandro 2007.................................................. 38 60 Cecchi Toscana Coevo 2010.............................................................16 33 Fattoria di Magliano Morellino di Scansano Heba 2011...............26 46 Il Molino di Grace Toscana Gratius 2008.........................................27 47 Leuta Toscana 2010.............................................................................24 43 Livernano Toscana Puro Sangue 2009.............................................25 44 Marchesi Antinori Bolgheri Il Bruciato 2011.......................................4 20 Monteverro Toscana Terra di Monteverro 2010..............................29 49 Nittardi Maremma Toscana Ad Astra 2011..................................... 30 51 Pianirossi Maremma Toscana Solus 2008.........................................33 55 Poggio la Noce Toscana Gigetto 2010............................................36 58 Poggio la Noce Toscana Gigio 2008................................................36 58 Baracchi Toscana Ardito 2009............................................................7 23 Riecine Chianti Classico 2011............................................................40 62 Rocca delle Macie Sangiovese Syrah Toscana Sasyr 2010..........41 63 Rocca delle Macie Toscana Roccato 2008....................................41 63 Supremus Toscana 2007......................................................................17 35 Tenuta La Badiola Maremma Toscana 642 Riserva del Canapone 2009.......................................................21 40 Terrabianca Toscana Campaccio Selezione 2007....................... 43 67 Volpaia Toscana Indue 2008............................................................ 48 72
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Wine (By Score) Wine
Table Page
90 Points
Castello di Bolgheri Bolgheri Superiore 2010.....................................3 27 Castello di Monsanto Cabernet Sauvignon Toscana Nemo 2004.............................................................................28 48 Castello di Monsanto Cabernet Sauvignon Toscana Nemo 2007.............................................................................28 48 Fattoria La Torre Toscana Stringaio 2009..........................................23 42 Gagliole Chianti Classico Rubiolo 2011.............................................20 39 Il Borro Toscana Pian di Nova 2011.....................................................11 28 Leuta Sangiovese Cortona Solitario di Leuta 2009.........................24 43 Monte Antico Toscana 2009...............................................................17 35 Baracchi Toscana O’lillo 2012..............................................................7 23 Riecine Toscana La Gioia 2009..........................................................40 62 Rocca delle Macie Toscana Ser Gioveto 2008................................41 63
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Agricola Amantis
www.agricolaamantis.com
Table 1
One of Tuscany’s most accomplished consulting enologists, Paolo Vagaggini, and his wife Bernardetta Angela Tacconi Vagaggini started this estate a few years ago, and the wines continue to impress me. The couple made it their mission to produce original, superior wines at Amantis, which is located in the crossroads territory of Montenero, near Montalcino in the Monteccuo area. Sangiovese, present in a variety of clones, is the most important variety in the Amantis project. Amantis is blessed with balanced clay soils and favorably hill morphology. The vineyards are high density with approximately 8,000 plants per hectare. This helps assure tiny crops that deliver concentrated wines. —JS Amantis Toscana Iperione 2007
Aromas of blueberries and blackberries with hints of dark chocolate. Full body, fine tannins and a silky-textured finish. Intense richness and depth of fruit. Give it until 2015 when the tannins soften even more. 92 points
Amantis Toscana Goghi 2010
A balanced and fruity red with plums, peaches and orange peel. Full yet fine-textured with silky tannins and a fresh finish. Made from 57% sangiovese, 30% merlot, 9% alicante, 3% petit verdot and 1% colorino. Drink now. Amusing label. 91 points
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Tenuta Argentiera www.argentiera.eu
Table 2
Located in the famous Bolgheri district along Tuscany’s coastline, the estate of Tenuta Argentiera is neighbored by some of Italy’s most famous wineries: Guado al Tasso, Ornellaia and Tenuta San Guido (Sassicaia). Back in Etruscan times the plateau of the tenuta was rich in canals, natural springs and silver mines, which is where the estate gets its name. Previously part of the old Donoratico estate, which once belonged to the rich and powerful Florentine Serristori family, the tenuta was owned by the Antinori family until 1999, when the current owners, Corrado and Marcello Fratini, bought part of it. The prime location is complemented by a world-class team led by Frederico Zileri, the vineyard manager, and Stéphane Derenoncourt, the famous Bordeaux consulting enologist. The wines always have a harmonious, soulful nature to them. —JS Argentiera Bolgheri Superiore 2010
This red shows beautiful perfumes of flowers, blueberries and currants. Full body, super-integrated, fine tannins and a long, long finish. Flavorful and polished. Cabernet sauvignon, merlot and cabernet franc. Better in 2015. 93 points
Argentiera Bolgheri Villa Donoratico 2010
Aromas of chili, red pepper and blueberries follow through to medium body, with fine tannins and a clean finish. Attractive and fun. Always delicious. Drink now or hold. 92 points
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Marchesi Antinori www.antinori.it
Table 4
What would the wine world be like without the Antinori family? The patriarch of the clan, Piero Antinori, forever changed the way the world views Tuscan wines with the invention in the 1970s of Tignanello, followed by Solaia, which I named as my Italian Wine of the Year in 2013. Solaia is an artful blend of sangiovese, cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc. Many of the Antinoris’ wines, especially Solaia, maintain a loyal following among collectors around the world. The Antinoris make wines in many of the key appellations in Italy, such as Brunello di Montalcino, Bolgheri, Barolo and Barbaresco, as well as in areas outside the country, such as Napa Valley and Washington State in the US. The world is this family’s winemaking arena. But it’s Tuscany that remains home and produces the Antinoris’ best wines.—JS Marchesi Antinori Bolgheri Il Bruciato 2011
Very pure aromas of blackberries, spices and blueberries. Hints of cloves and fresh mint. Full body, super-refined tannins and a currant and mineral aftertaste. Very refined style to this. Second wine of Tenuta Guado al Tasso. A blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot and syrah. Try in 2015. 91 points
Marchesi Antinori Bolgheri Superiore Guado al Tasso 2010
A rich, beautiful wine with a dark-chocolate, currant and raspberry character. Full body with velvety tannins and a clean finish. A blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot and cabernet franc. This is very youthful and needs at least three years of bottle age. 95 points
Marchesi Antinori Toscana Solaia 2007
This is a subtle and racy wine. Balanced, with vibrant fruit and bright acidity and chocolate and spices. Full and racy. Very long. Austere. Fascinating. Very closed right now. Give it five or six years minimum now. Winemaker Renzo Cotarella says that Solaia is more reserved in character than the Antinori’s Guado al Tasso from Bolgheri, which is more flashy. Makes me smile. 97 points
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Argiano
Table 5
www.argiano.net
This beautiful wine estate in the southern part of the Brunello di Montalcino appellation has long been a leader in the region. First, it made long-aging Brunellos with richness and depth, and later produced superb Super Tuscan reds, particularly the blend Solengo and the pure sangiovese Suolo. All the recent reds show an impressive balance and finesse, with structure. The property was recently sold to a group of Brazilian investors, who are dedicated to taking Argiano to the next step in fine-wine quality. Hans Vinding-Diers remains the winemaker. —JS Argiano Toscana Suolo 2010
A red with lots of new wood, chocolate and berry character. Full body, soft texture and a long, flavorful aftertaste. Pure sangiovese. Two or three years of bottle age will resolve the wood here. 91 points
Argiano Toscana Non Confunditur 2011
Lots of dark fruit in this wine, with a mineral and black-licorice character. It’s full-bodied and there are chewy but polished tannins before a long, long finish. A rich, powerful, balanced wine. Extremely well made from a top producer in Montalcino. A blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, syrah and sangiovese. Excellent value. Better in 2015. 93 points
Argiano Solengo Toscana 2011
This is rich and structured with lots of crushed raspberries and milk chocolate. It’s full body, with chew and polished tannins and a long finish. Need a few years to soften. New wood is showing now and needs to come together. Very close to the excellent 2009. Better in 2016. 93 points
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Castello Banfi
www.castellobanfi.com
Table 6
American-owned Castello Banfi is one of the most famous Tuscan wine producers due to the excellent quality of its Brunello di Montalcinos and its global distribution system. Banfi is credited with pioneering a new era in Brunello and bringing the wine world’s attention to Montalcino. Banfi also pioneered clonal research on the sangiovese vine to produce a more consistently excellent Brunello di Montalcino, and reduced sulfites and histamines through more organic winemaking. Technological advances, including customized cooperage for more balanced wines, nitrogen bottling to eliminate the addition of sulfites, electrodialysis to allow flavors to emerge, and development of fermenters that combine both stainless steel and wood, are balanced with a profound respect for tradition and deep expression of the local terroir and microclimate. It is hard to think of a more consistently outstanding Brunello producer than Banfi, and the wines are available throughout Asia. Its Super Tuscan wines, while less known, also shouldn’t be overlooked: Summus is always excellent quality. Don’t forget to taste the 1997, which shows how well these wines age; it’s an excellent example of that glorious vintage. —JS Castello Banfi Toscana Belnero 2010
Aromas of blueberries, blackberries and moss follow through to a full body, with fine tannins and a juicy, fruity, fresh finish. Savory and lightly salty. Excellent to drink now but better in two or three years. A delicious wine for a good price. Predominantly sangiovese. 91 points
Castello Banfi Toscana Summus 2010
A wine with grace and beauty, with blueberry and chocolate character. Medium to full body, with fine tannins and a clean finish. Sangiovese (25%), cabernet sauvignon (40%) and syrah (35%). Delicious now but will be better in 2015. 93 points
Castello Banfi Sant’Antimo Excelsus 1997
This once highly concentrated red with lots of flavor and texture has finally come into its own. It shows lovely character of mint, currants and blackberries with hints of licorice and leaf. Drink and enjoy. 93 points
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Azienda Agricola Baracchi www.baracchiwinery.com
Table 7
Many people know Riccardo Baracchi as the owner and operator of super-chic hotel Il Falconiere, near Cortona. However, Baracchi has also gained a following for his excellent wines, in particular the cabernet sauvignon and syrah blend Ardito. The vineyards of Cortona are fabulous for syrah, and Baracchi spices it up in the Ardito by using cabernet in the blend. The pure syrah, Smeriglio, is equally attractive. —JS Baracchi Toscana Ardito 2010
Aromas of almonds, oranges and blackberries. Full body, with velvety tannins and a flavorful finish. A little chewy, with slightly dried tannins but will soften with a year or two of bottle age. Delicious already. A blend of syrah and cabernet sauvignon. Try in 2015. 92 points
Baracchi Toscana O’lillo 2012
Lots of plum and berry character with hints of cherry. Full body with integrated tannins and a fruity, fresh finish. Better in 2015. 90 points
Baracchi Toscana Ardito 2009
A wine with ripe fruit and spices. Hints of toasted oak and chocolate. Full and velvety. A little rustic now. Syrah and cabernet sauvignon. Needs another two to three years. 91 points
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Barone Ricasoli www.ricasoli.it
Table 8
The name Ricasoli is associated with the creation of the versatile Tuscan Chianti red in the early 1870s, but in recent years the winery has come through as one of the leaders of Chianti Classico. What is amazing is that owner Francesco Ricasoli manages to produce very goodquality wines across the board, from simple Chiantis to powerful, structured, estate-produced Chianti Classicos. The Castello di Brolio is especially impressive. Francesco’s ancestors are famous for creating the Chianti blend, but Francesco is creating an even more impressive legacy with his hard work and wonderful wines at his winery in Brolio. —JS Barone Ricasoli Toscana Casalferro 2010
A wine with aromatic beauty: perfumed and sexy. Full body, super-velvety tannins and a long, delicious finish. Wonderful intensity and decadence to this. 100% merlot. Drink or hold. But too good now. 94 points
Barone Ricasoli Chianti Classico Castello di Brolio 2010
A wine with lots of blueberries and mushrooms on the nose and palate. Full body, with chewy tannins that are polished and attractive. Long, intense flavours. Gorgeous. Perhaps the best Castello di Brolio since 1997. 96 points
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Bibi Graetz (Testamatta) www.bibigraetz.com
Table 9
In only slightly more than a decade, Bibi Graetz has become one of the brightest lights in Tuscan winemaking. This is primarily because of the superb quality of his pure sangiovese Testamatta, but his Colore is also a fantastic, unique wine. Graetz is crazy for old vines, which give his best reds depth and soul. He makes his top wines on the hillsides above Florence, close to the village of Fiesole. Don’t miss his Testamatta 2010, while the Colore 2008 is his best red ever. —JS Bibi Graetz Toscana Testamatta 2010
This is the same quality or better than the legendary 2006. Lovely aromas of berries, chocolate and walnuts follow through to a full body with loads of fruit, and chewy tannins that are polished and velvety. Pure sangiovese. Needs at least four to five years of bottle age still. Try in 2017. 98 points
Bibi Graetz Soffocone di Vincigliata 2011
A balanced red with chili, berry and dark chocolate character. Full body, round tannins and a savory finish. Delicious now but better in 2015. 92 points
Bibi Graetz Toscana Colore 2008
This is a phenomenal, tiny-production red made mostly from colorino and canaiolo grapes. It has an amazing density and richness but remains bright and velvety in texture. It has such intense flavours of dark cherry and spice, with hints of chocolate. Very long finish. It’s just about ready to drink now. Superb. 1,800 bottles made. 99 points
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Tenuta di Biserno www.biserno.it
Table 10
This property is a relative newcomer to the world of fine Tuscan wine, but its main owners are longtime heroes of the region, brothers Piero and Lodovico Antinori. Piero is the patriarch of the Antinori wine business, and Lodovico is the former owner of Ornellaia. Biserno was established in 2001, in a location on the edge of the appellation of Bolgheri, very close to some of the vineyards of Masseto. The wines are all Bordeaux blends and are hitting their stride now as the vines get older. Compare the 2008 and 2009 vintages. —JS Tenuta di Biserno Toscana Il Pino 2008
The aromas of dark fruits, rosemary and dried spices are so beautiful. Full bodied, with velvety tannins and a polished finish. Really delicious. Very integrated fruit and tannins here. Drink or hold. 92 points
Tenuta di Biserno Toscana Biserno 2009
Aromas of blackberries, rosemary, blueberries and spices. Full body with fine tannins and a racy, clean finish. Very fine indeed. It goes on for minutes. 95 points
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Castello di Bolgheri
www.castellodibolgheri.eu
Table 3
The vineyards of this historic property dating back to the 1500s were only planted in 1997, predominantly with Bordeaux grape varieties. The winery and the cellar are located inside the castle, a property of the Della Gherardesca counts for more than 30 generations. The Castello, near the village of Bolgheri, also produces olive oil and offers charming accommodation in three separate houses that are available for rent. The winery produces two labels, which are dominated by cabernet sauvignon and deliver wines that are delicate and elegant but also structured for aging. —JS Castello di Bolgheri Bolgheri Superiore 2010
Lots of currant and chocolate aromas. Full body with medium tannins and a lightly toasted oak and berry aftertaste. A red that will give more and more as it ages. 90 points
Castello di Bolgheri Bolgheri Varvara 2010
Aromas of loamy soil, soya and dark fruits follow through to a full body, with soft, velvety tannins and a chocolate, orange peel and chili aftertaste. Complex. Better in 2015. 91 points
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Il Borro
Table 11
www.ilborro.com
Ferruccio Ferragamo, CEO of his family’s famous fashion house, began making wine seriously only a decade ago, with the help of his son Salvatore. The wines are made on their luxurious hunting reserve Il Borro, about 15 minutes north of the city of Arezzo. The top wines are rich and delicious at the early stages of their evolution. I always enjoy the Bordeaux blend with a touch of syrah – the label of which carries the name and a sketch of the medieval hamlet of Il Borro, where I have rented a house since 1998. Polissena, meanwhile, is a pure, single-vineyard sangiovese. The Ferragamos recently hired consulting oenologist Stefano Chioccioli. He started with the 2011 vintage, which holds great promise for Il Borro, especially with cabernet sauvignon and syrah. The 2010 Borro is best ever, with Chioccioli overseeing the selection and blend of the wine. —JS Il Borro Toscana Pian di Nova 2011
A tangy red with sliced-citrus and blueberry character. Full body with velvety tannins and chocolate, berry and almond-paste flavors. Drink or hold. 90 points
Il Borro Toscana 2010
This is very aromatic, with crushed berries, flowers and citrus fruit. It’s fullbodied with very silky tannins and a caressing finish. Refined and beautiful. Give it one or two years more to come together but already wonderful. Best ever from here. 94 points
Il Borro Toscana Polissena 2010
A delicate pure sangiovese with dried-cherry character and light cedar. Full body with ultra-fine tannins and a long, subtle, fruity, juicy finish. Very beautiful. Drink or hold. 92 points
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Caiarossa
Table 12
www.caiarossa.com
Caiarossa has been making soulful wines since the early 2000s, but it wasn’t until the Dutch entrepreneur Eric Albada Jelgersma bought the estate in 2004 that it started making world-class bottles. The businessman also owns Bordeaux’s Chateau Giscours and Chateau du Tertre. The top wine of Caiarossa is a fascinating blend of sangiovese, cabernet franc, merlot, cabernet sauvignon, alicante, petit verdot and mourvedre. Made from biodynamically grown grapes, the 2009 is the best ever, with fabulous depth of fruit and refined structure. The white is also excellent. Don’t miss the chance to drink the 2004, which show how well these wines age. —JS Caiarossa Toscana 2009
Best ever from here. This is a wine that is sexy and caressing with polished, very fine tannins. Full body, with cool, bright fruit and a long currant, mint and mineral aftertaste. Very fine indeed. A blend of sangiovese, cabernet franc, merlot, cabernet sauvignon, grenache, petit verdot and syrah. 95 points
Caiarossa Toscana 2004
Aromas of dried fruits and plums. Very grenache-like. Full body, juicy and rich with lots of olive oil, stones and dark fruits in the aftertaste. Savory. Drink or hold. 93 points
Caiarossa Toscana Pergolaia 2009
A wine with subtle cherry and hazelnut character, plus hints of cocoa. Full but balanced and refined with very pretty tannins and a long, caressing finish. A blend of sangiovese, merlot and cabernet franc. So pretty now but better in 2014. 92 points
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Capezzana
www.capezzana.it
Table 13
Wine jars and tasting cups found in Etruscan tombs dating to approximately 1000 BC show that vines have been cultivated in Carmignano since pre-Roman times. More specifically, a parchment rent contract conserved in the Florence state archives, dated 804, reveals that vines and olives were cultivated at Capezzana for the production of oil and wine as early as 1,200 years ago. The last two generations of the Contini Bonacossi family, however, are responsible for making the winery famous for beautifully crafted reds at all price points. I first visited the estate in 1983 and have been impressed ever since with Capezzana’s wines, especially its top Carmignanos. I remember tasting a Carmingnano from the 1920s and it had the weight and allure of a fine aged Burgundy. The wines made today are equally compelling. —JS Capezzana Toscana Ghiaie della Furba 2007
Very attractive red with blueberry and hints of vanilla that follow through to a full body, with fine tannins and a silky finish. Very fine indeed. Drink now or hold. But better in two or three years. 93 points
Capezzana Carmignano Villa di Capezzana 2008
I like the concentrated character of raspberries, currants and fresh herbs in this red. Full but dense and very balanced. Agile. Best in 2013. 92 points
Capezzana Carmignano Trefiano Riserva 2008
This wine is integrated and refined, and beckons you to drink it. Character of lemon rind, spices and chocolate with dried fruits. It’s long and delicious. Drink now. 91 points
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Fattoria Casaloste www.casaloste.com
Table 14
The Casaloste wine estate is one of a group of Chianti Classico producers that have come to the forefront of quality in the past 10 years. All of the nearly 10 hectares of vineyards near the town of Panzano are organically cultivated, and owner-winemaker Giovanni D’Orsi crafts long, refined reds with wonderful depth of fruit and racy structure. D’Orsi makes two pure riserva Chianti Classicos that are among my favorites from the appellation: the normal bottling and the Don Vincenzo. The later is a selection of the best sangiovese on the property. Look for the 2007. Inversus, the estate’s 2009 Super Tuscan red made from merlot and sangiovese, is a fabulous wine. It was one of my Top 10 Wines in 2012. —JS Casaloste Chianti Classico Don Vincenzo Riserva 2009
This is a rich red with cherry, light-mushroom and bark character. Full body, beautiful fruit and wonderful finesse. It’s very flavorful and persistent on the finish. Made from organically grown grapes. Fantastic. Drink or hold. 94 points
Casaloste Toscana Inversus 2009
Gorgeous aromas of crushed raspberries and blueberries. Hints of wild flowers. Full body with super-well-integrated tannins and a long, long finish. This is superb. Best wine ever from here. Made from organic grapes. Try in 2015. 96 points
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Castiglion del Bosco
www.castigliondelbosco.com
Table 15
This luxury destination – the dream of Massimo Ferragamo, of the famous Tuscan fashion family – in the hills of the wine-producing region of Brunello di Montalcino has been a boost to tourism in central Italy. Castiglion del Bosco, however, was making excellent wines long before the hotel, spa and golf course were built. Best known for its Brunellos, Castiglion del Bosco also makes some amazing Super Tuscans, including Prima Pietra and Daniero. Both of these wines are made from grapes that come from Castiglion del Bosco’s Riparbella vineyard, which is close to the Bolgheri wine area on the Tuscan coast. The vines face the Tyrrhenian sea at an elevation of 450 meters. The site enjoys abundant sun and ventilation. The iron-rich, rocky soils yield grapes that produce wines of superb structure. The Prima Pietra is an eloquent expression of the exceptional quality of this vineyard’s terroir. —JS Castiglion del Bosco Toscana Prima Pietra 2010
This is complex and complete on the nose with blackberries, minerals and currants. Full body with chewy tannins and a lightly toasted, berry and vanilla undertone. Needs at least three to four years of bottle age to come together. 93 points
Castiglion del Bosco Prima Pietra Toscana 2009
Aromas of currants and raspberries with hints of licorice and mint. Full-bodied, with very well-integrated tannins and wonderful length. This is very, very classic. Goes on for minutes on the palate. Stunning third-edition bottle of this Bordeaux blend from Massimo Ferragamo’s vineyards in Ripabella. Try in 2015. 96 points
Castiglion del Bosco Toscana Daniero 2011
This is really beautiful, with a sexy ripe-fruit and chocolate character. Good combination of fruit and wood. Full body, velvety-textured and a rich, intense finish. Made from 90% merlot and 10% sangiovese. Better in 2015. 92 points
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Cecchi
Table 16
www.cecchi.net
As the family crest implies, the Cecchis have been making wines since 1893, yet this prominent Tuscan producer inexplicably avoids the attention it well deserves. Like many notable Italian producers – Frescobaldi, Mazzei and Antinori – the Cecchi family owns a variety of independent vineyards and estates throughout Tuscany. In 1996 the Cecchi family purchased the Val delle Rose winery in the small town of Poggio la Mozza, which is in the heart of the Morellino di Scansano production area. At the time of purchase, Val delle Rose had vineyards roughly planted on 25 hectares. With soil studies in hand, Maremma was revealed to have enormous potential in its terroir; so much so that the winery decided to enlarge the planting area to its current 100 hectares, where the star varietal is sangiovese. The vines are densely planted, varying between 5,000 and 5,500 plants per hectare. This involves a logical density – allowing the plant a slow flowering phase that is rich in air circulation. These aspects are fundamental in obtaining the balance necessary for producing top-quality wines. —JS Cecchi Toscana Coevo 2010
Gorgeous, bright aromas of dried cherries, berries and flowers. Full body with fine tannins and a fresh, citrusy aftertaste. A wine made from 60% sangiovese, 20% petit verdot, 10% cabernet sauvignon and 10% merlot. Needs another year or two of bottle age. 91 points
Cecchi Morellino di Scansano Val Delle Rose Riserva 2009
Very aromatic and beautiful, with black cherries and dried flowers. Full-bodied, with very well-integrated tannins that last for minutes. Flavors of chocolate and subtle ripe fruit. Drink now. 92 points
Cecchi Toscana Coevo 2009
A silky, well-crafted red with currant and blueberry character. Full-bodied, with super-well-integrated tannins and a long, long finish. Classy. Sangiovese and cabernet sauvignon. Better in two or three years. 93 points
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Tenuta I Collazzi www.collazzi.com
Table 52
In the 1990s, the Collazzi vineyards and cellars were radically renovated with the sole intention of producing high-quality wines with striking personality. Lamberto Frescobaldi directed the restructuring on behalf of the Marchi family, a branch of the Frescobaldis. The upgrades were successful and the quality of the vines reflects how harmoniously the soils, climate and grapes have evolved over time together. The Collazzi soils are sandy, partly clay, rich in limestone and rocky. These conditions led to the planting of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, cabernet franc and petit verdot, in addition to the traditional sangiovese. The reds are distinctive and structured with solid cores of fruit. The 2010 is the best ever. —JS Collazzi Toscana 2009
A wine with velvety tannins and ripe fruit with hints of tobacco and cedar box. Full and caressing. Always a solid, flavorful red. A blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot and cabernet franc. Better in 2013. 93 points
Collazzi Toscana 2010
Aromas of currants and minerals with blueberries. Full body with ultra-fine tannins and fruit. Very balanced and beautiful. Give it three to four years of bottle age. Amazing Bordeaux blend. Best red ever from here. Try in 2015. 95 points
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Empson
Table 17
www.empson.com
It’s hard to think of a couple who have done more to promote, market and sell fine Italian wines around the world, particularly in the US, than Neil and Maria Empson; their daughter Tara is now working in their wine import/export company, too. The Empsons have exported more great bottles of Italian wine in the past four decades than just about anyone else I know. They also produce their own wines, primarily in Tuscany but also in Sardinia. And the wines are sold at extremely reasonable prices. Monte Antico is one of the best-value wines from Italy and the Empsons’ Toscolo Chianti Classicos are always delicious, high-quality wines. These are soulful Italian reds for everyday enjoyment. Try the Supremus a wonderful Super Tuscan blend. —JS Supremus Toscana 2007
This blended red from consulting enologist Franco Bernabei and wine merchant Neil Empson shows a pretty balance of fresh fruit, tangy acidity and rounded tannins. It’s harmony and delicious now. 91 points
Monte Antico Toscana 2009
This is one of the best-value wines from Italy, with a medium-to-full body, a refined, very pretty mouthfeel of fine tannins, and a delicious fruity finish. 85% sangiovese, 10% cabernet sauvignon and 5% merlot. Drink now. 90 points
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Fabrizio Dionisio
www.fabriziodionisio.it
Table 18
The Dionisio family has owned the Il Castagno estate near the hilltop town of Cortona since the early 1970s but it wasn’t until more than two decades later, when Fabrizio Dionisio began planting and producing syrah, that the property became known for top-class reds. His wines have a soulful, handmade feeling to them, very much like top small producers in the Northern Rhone, particularly in Cornas. Fabrizio’s goal is to make artisinal wines: He has more than achieved this at every level. —JS Fabrizio Dionisio Cortona Cuculaia 2009
Aromas of plums and sweet tobacco with hints of smoked meat. Full body with soft, silky tannins and a focused milk-chocolate, chili-powder and lightlemongrass aftertaste. The bright acidity combines well with the ripe fruit to make this a beautiful syrah. Drink or hold. 93 points
Fabrizio Dionisio Cortona II Castagno 2010
This is a pretty syrah with spices, meat and dark fruits. It’s full-bodied and has soft tannins and loads of flavor. Drink or hold. 92 points
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Tenuta di Castiglioni (Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi) www.frescobaldi.it
Table 54
It all began here for the great Tuscan wine family of Frescobaldi. Members have documentation that indicates that wines were being produced here as early as AD 1300. Castiglioni is in Val di Pesa, among the hills to the southwest of Florence. The fertile, varied soils are composed of both rock and clay, ideal conditions for the cultivation of the elegant sangiovese, as well as for the robust, vivacious cabernet sauvignon, merlot and cabernet franc. I have a particular fondness for the merlot here, which resembles great merlot from Bordeaux’s Pomerol. So don’t miss the Giramonte that’s being poured at the event. —JS Tenuta di Castiglioni (Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi) Toscana Giramonte 2009
The purity and focus of this wine are amazing, with currants and blueberries throughout. Full body, fine tannins and a beautiful fruit structure. It goes on for minutes. Made from mostly merlot with some sangiovese. 95 points
Tenuta di Castiglioni (Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi) Toscana Castiglioni 2011
This is a solid red with blueberry and currant character. Full body with silky, chewy tannins and a long, long finish. Tangy acidity with a citrus undertone. A blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, cabernet franc and sangiovese. Better in 2015. 92 points
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Castello di Gabbiano www.castellogabbiano.it
Table 19
Castello di Gabbiano stands as proof that the future of the production of ancient wines lies in the capacity to balance tradition and innovation. It is one of the largest estates in Chianti Classico at 138.8 hectares. Here, new fermentation methods are being tried out and, at the same time, the most ancient methods and manual techniques are still used, in light of the most up-to-date knowledge. The fully revitalized castle vineyards – the oldest dates from 1996 – snake through the limestone-flecked clay soil of the estate. Roughly 80% of the vines are sangiovese, 14% merlot, 5% experimental and 1% malvasia. I have become more and more impressed with Gabbiano’s Super Tuscan reds, particularly the Bordeaux blend Alleanza. Check out the three vintages at the event and tell me which you prefer. —JS Castello di Gabbiano Toscana Alleanza 2010
Aromas of blackberries, dried flowers and minerals follow through to a full body, chewy tannins and a long, flavorful finish. This is a little tough now but should soften with bottle age. Better in 2015. Made from merlot and cabernet sauvignon. 92 points
Castello di Gabbiano Toscana Alleanza 2009
Beautiful currant and hints of chocolate and red-pepper character. Full and velvety with silky tannins and a long finish. Best wine ever from here. Merlot and cabernet sauvignon. Drink or hold. 93 points
Castello di Gabbiano Toscana Alleanza 2008
Beautiful aromas of crushed raspberries, with hints of flowers. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a blueberry and vanilla-cream note. This young red has an opulent, caressing texture. Made from merlot, sangiovese and cabernet sauvignon. Best after 2013. 92 points
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Gagliole
Table 20
www.gagliole.com
Swiss lawyer and banker Thomas Bär came to this Tuscan wine estate near the village of Castellina in Chianti as a getaway from the hustle and bustle of his banking business in Zurich. He and his wife Monika quickly caught the wine bug and they have been making excellent reds ever since. The key red, Gagliole, is a blend of sangiovese and cabernet sauvignon, while a small-production, single-vineyard red, Pecchia, is sangiovese with a touch of merlot. Both wines show a firmness and clarity true to their terroir. The Chianti Classico Rubiolo is excellent value. —JS Gagliole Chianti Classico Rubiolo 2011
A Chianti Classico with a bright, fresh cherry character. Medium body, crisp acidity and fine tannins. Very delicious and vivacious. All about drinkability. Enjoy. 90 points
Gagliole Toscana Pecchia 2010
This is tangy and delicious with dark fruits and intense walnut character. Medium to full body with fine tannins and orange peel, along with chocolate and dried fruits. Shows a beautiful texture and finesse. A toned beauty. Made from sangiovese and cabernet sauvignon. So delicious now, but better in 2015. 95 points
Gagliole Colli della Toscana Centrale 2010
A wine with a full body and lots of fruit and spices. Hints of chocolate and walnuts. So juicy and delicious. Wonderful balance. Blend of sangiovese and cabernet sauvignon. Drink now or hold. 93 points
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Tenuta La Badiola www.tenutalabadiola.it
Table 21
Tenuta La Badiola might be better known by most people as a super-chic resort on the Tuscan coast near the town of Castiglione del Pescaia. But it’s been quietly developing its wine production over the last few years, and the 2009 is the first vintage I have tasted. Please check it out: it’s a robust, delicious blend of blend of cabernet sauvignon, alicante, merlot and syrah. —JS Tenuta La Badiola Maremma Toscana 642 Riserva del Canapone 2009
Loads of ripe, spicy fruit with prunes and an almost brown-sugar undertone, plus figs, too. Full body, round and generous with lots of soft, velvety tannins. A rich, decadent wine. A delicious blend of cabernet sauvignon, alicante, merlot and syrah. Why wait? 91 points
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La Massa
Table 22
www.lamassa.com
Giampaolo Motta is one of the most energetic winemakers in Tuscany, perhaps in all Italy. He is outspoken about his dedication to high quality, and a few years ago he stopped using the Chianti Classico designation on the label of his top wine, Giorgio Primo. The wine now uses no sangiovese and focuses on Bordeaux varietals. It is one of the strictest but most voluptuous reds from the Chianti Classico region. Motta’s 2009 Giorgio Primo is one of his best ever. Expect more and more great wines as he fine-tunes his new winery like a top Ferrari Formula 1 driver. —JS La Massa Toscana Giorgio Primo 2011
Captivating aromas of blueberries, raspberries, violets and orange peel. Full body with crazy tannins. 95 points
La Massa Toscana 2011
Aromas of smoked meats, blueberries and violets. This is full-bodied with fine tannins and a beautiful, silky-textured, savory finish. Drink now. 93 points
La Massa Toscana Giorgio Primo 2009
Powerful aromas of dark fruits, minerals and hints of new wood. Superperfumed. Licorice, too. Powerful aromas of dark fruits, minerals and hints of new wood. Super-perfumed. Licorice, too. Full-bodied, with a seamless tannin texture and wonderful length. This wine is ultra-polished and long. Super structure but full of finesse. Best after 2014, but so amazing to taste now. 60% cabernet sauvignon, 35% merlot and 5% petit verdot. 97 points
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Fattoria La Torre www.fattorialatorre.it
Table 23
Fattoria La Torre has made fine wine for more than 100 years. The current owner, Marco Celli, has a certificate from 1887 that shows the Torre’s participation in the First Oenological Show and Fair of Tuscan Wines – when the owner at the time, Cavaliere Ulisse Sainati, won a bronze medal. However, it’s been under the ownership of the Celli family that La Torre has made world-class wines. Borgo la Torre has 13 hectares of land, with seven planted as vineyards. Most of the relatively small production goes to Stringaio, which is named after the stream that runs along one side of the property. It is a blend of 70% syrah and 30% cabernet sauvignon. The flagship wine of the estate is Esse, a pure syrah. —JS Fattoria La Torre Toscana Esse 2010
Intense aromas of dark fruits and chili. Full body with intense flavors of spices, berries and milk chocolate. Goes on a long time. Gorgeous. Pure syrah. Superb. Like the 2001. Drink or hold. 95 points
Fattoria La Torre Toscana Stringaio 2009
Plenty of fruit, with berries, especially blueberries, following through to a full body, and soft, silky tannins, with a long finish. A delicious blend of syrah and cabernet sauvignon. Drink now. 90 points
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Azienda Agricola Leuta www.leuta.it
Table 24
The wines of Leuta have only existed for a few years, but owners Denis Zeni and Enzo Berlanda are determined to become serious winemakers with their two dozen or so vineyards in San Lorenzo di Cortona in Tuscany, not far away from Lake Trasimeno and Montepulciano. There’s a precision to their wines that has impressed me since I first tasted them a couple of years ago. Even though syrah is considered the staple of the Cortona appellation, Leuta seems to be able to find quality in all its varietals - even the ever-difficult sangiovese. —JS Leuta Sangiovese Cortona Solitario di Leuta 2009
A red with dried cherries and meat aromas. Full body, round tannins and a medium finish. A little closed right now. Better in 2015 when the tannins soften. 90 points
Leuta Toscana 2010
Smells like freshly cut flowers, with dried berries and hints of bark. Full body with chewy tannins and a fresh, tangy acidity. Shows lots of energy. Give it two or three years to soften. A blend of syrah, merlot and cabernet sauvignon. Try in 2015. 91 points
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Livernano/Casalvento www.livernano.it
Table 25
I have always been impressed with the wines of Livernano, located in the heart of Chianti Classico. I have tasted the wines for about a decade now and their harmony and focused character always strike me. Apparently, this has mostly been due to the restoration efforts of American owner Robert Cuillo, although consulting enologist Stefano Chioccioli has also added to the success. Just over 11 hectares of vineyards are with nine different grape types, but it’s the sangiovese that really thrives here. This is a Tuscan wine estate that produces excellent wines across the board. —JS Livernano Toscana 2009
Aromas of blueberries and blackberries with hints of violets follow through to a full body with silky tannins and a long, long finish. Drink or hold. 92 points
Livernano Toscana Puro Sangue 2009
Tangy and flavorful with a mineral, dried-cherry character. Full, dense palate with firm tannins and a fresh finish. Very pretty. 91 points
Casalvento Toscana Janus 2008
Intense aromas of ripe blueberries with hints of toasted oak and coffee bean. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and intense fruit. Seems very New World, but Tuscan too. Drink now. 92 points
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Tenuta Luce della Vite www.lucedellavite.com
Table 51
This Tuscany wine estate, located in the hills of southern Montalcino, began its life in the mid-1990s as a joint venture between the Florentine Frescobaldi family and California’s Mondavi clan. Through various sell-offs and buy-outs, the winery became the property solely of the Frescobaldis. I think the wines have never been better. There’s the opulent merlot-sangiovese blend, Luce della Vite; a great Brunello; and the second wine, Lucente. The 2010 Luce is the best ever. It was in my Top 10 Wines of 2013. Don’t miss it. —JS Luce della Vite Toscana Luce 2010
This is clearly the greatest Luce ever. A wine with currants, blueberries and hints of flowers and spices. A full-bodied red with with lots of chocolate, berry and vanilla character. Chewy. Juicy. Better in 2015 after it has softened and come together. Fabulous. 98 points
Luce della Vite Toscana Lucente 2010
Fascinating aromas of ripe berries and hints of coconut and vanilla bean follow through to a full body, with super-silky tannins and a long, intense finish. Lots going on here. Excellent value. Needs at another year or two to come together. But so excellent now. 93 points
Luce della Vite Toscana Luce 2004
Refined and balanced style. Subtle aromas and flavors of ripe fruits, dried flowers and aniseed. Full, yet very fine. Drink now. 92 points
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Fattoria di Magliano
Table 26
www.opiciwines.com/wine/winery/fattoria-magliano
Like many excellent wine estates, Fattoria di Magliano began in the 1980s thanks to the passion of its owner, Agostino Lenci, for great food and wine. Lenci chose the southwest portion of Tuscany, Maremma, on the coast of the Tyrannian Sea, as the site for his winery. He also enlisted the great Tuscan enologist Giacomo Tachis, who created Sassicaia, among other great Super Tuscan reds. The rest is history: Magliano makes some of the most refined and wellcrafted reds in the Maremma. —JS Fattoria di Magliano Maremma Toscana Poggio Bestiale 2010
Very aromatic, with currants and flowers. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a beautiful fruit intensity on the finish. Bright finish. Drink now or hold. 93 points
Fattoria di Magliano Maremma Toscana Perenzo 2010
Bright and fruity with lemon, strawberry and milk-chocolate character. Full body but balanced and delicious. Chocolate orange aftertaste. Drink now or hold. 92 points
Fattoria di Magliano Morellino di Scansano Heba 2011
Walnut and berry character with hints of chocolate follow through to a medium to full body with velvety tannins. Medium finish. Delicious. Drink now. 91 points
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Il Molino di Grace www.ilmolinodigrace.it
Table 27
II have been following the rise of winemaking at Il Molino di Grace in Chianti Classico since the property was founded in the mid-1990s, and I believe the wines are now consistently outstanding of quality and reflect the true nature of the vineyards. The Grace family seems to be focusing more on the balance and harmony of their wines in recent years. Some of its best wines ever are being made now. In addition, the winery is working hard to be environmentally sustainable. Keep an eye on this one. —JS Il Molino di Grace Toscana Gratius 2007
Aromas of sliced plums, peaches and berries follow through to a full body, with silky tannins and a berry, toasted-oak and cedar aftertaste. A little chewy and tannic now, but will soften with bottle age. Better in 2013. 92 points
Il Molino di Grace Toscana Gratius 2008
This is a very soft and velvety red with plum and milk-chocolate character. Full body, decadent flavors and an intense finish. Made from sangiovese. Drink now or hold. 91 points
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Castello di Monsanto www.castellodimonsanto.it
Table 28
The name Monsanto is synonymous with fine, age-worthy Chianti Classicos. Thanks to the hard work of owner Fabrizio Bianchi, the estate has been making excellent reds since 1962– very early in the evolution of modern fine-winemaking in Tuscany. It was the first winery in the region to make a singlevineyard designated wine– Chianti Classico Riserva Il Poggio. Laura Bianchi, Fabrizio’s daughter, now carries on the tradition as the head of the estate. Although Monsanto is best known for its Chianti Classicos, it also makes an excellent pure cabernet sauvignon, Nemo. —JS Castello di Monsanto Cabernet Sauvignon Toscana Nemo 2007
Aromas of dark fruits and dried meats. Meaty. Earthy. Full body with chewy tannins and a fruity finish. A little funky but I like it all the same. Pure cabernet sauvignon. Best in 2013. 90 points
Castello di Monsanto Chianti Classico II Poggio Riserva 2009
A soulful combination of dried fruits and mushrooms on the nose and palate here. Full body, silky tannins and a juicy, rich finish. Firm and austere in a beautiful way. There’s a real Chianti Classico character to this. Drink or hold. 93 points
Castello di Monsanto Cabernet Sauvignon Toscana Nemo 2004
Plenty of currant and vanilla character on the nose and palate. Soft-textured and full, with a long finish. A flavorful and delicious wine that is developing beautifully. Pure cabernet sauvignon. 90 points
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Monteverro
Table 29
www.monteverro.com
German entrepreneur Georg Weber only recently created this Tuscan wine estate, with the first vintage in 2008. Located in the Maremma region, near the town of Capalbio, Monteverro’s top wine is a Bordeaux blend created under the name of the estate, but it also makes a fantastic Rhone blend, Tinata. The barrel-fermented chardonnay can also be superb. For me, the 2009 was a big step up in quality from the 2008 – in fact, it was one of my top wines from Tuscany in 2012. The 2010s are very close in quality. World-renowned consulting enologist Michel Rolland oversees production. —JS Monteverro Toscana Terra di Monteverro 2010
A pure, attractive red with currants, raspberries and minerals. Full body with silky tannins and a fresh, clean finish. Second wine of Monteverro. 40% cabernet sauvignon, 40% cabernet franc, 15% merlot and 5% petit verdot. Try in 201, but very pretty now. 91 points
Monteverro Toscana 2010
A powerful, rich wine with loads of fruit and new wood. Full body with intense level of ripe fruit and velvety tannins. Bordeaux blend. Needs time to come together: better in 2015. 92 points
Monteverro Toscana Tinata 2009
Alluring aromas of blueberries and currants follow through to a full body, with fine tannins and a subtle dark-chocolate and fruit aftertaste. A blend of 80% syrah and 20% grenache. Better in 2015, but who can wait? 93 points
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Castello di Nipozzano (Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi) www.frescobaldi.it
Table 50
The ancient defensive stronghold of Florence since AD 1000, the castle of Nipozzano is the most celebrated and historic property of the Frescobaldi family. The castle and winery are found east of Florence in the mountainous part of the heart of the prestigious Chianti Rufina territory, overlooking the valley of the river Arno. Thanks to the perfect balance of altitude, soil and a cool, ventilated microclimate, the varieties enjoy ideal conditions for perfect growth, and produce wines of harmonious character and great longevity. The vineyard of Mormoreto is the best example of the exclusive marriage of nature and the work of man, an extraordinary terroir where the breezes that sweep across the vines create a murmur among the leaves, a characteristic that inspired the name of the vineyard and the wine. Mormoreto reds are always muscular and racy in style. The Nipozzano Chianti Rufina reserva is always one of the best-value premium reds from Tuscany. —JS Castello di Nipozzano (Marchesi de’Frescobaldi) Toscana Mormoreto 2010
The purity and focus of this wine are amazing, with currants and blueberries throughout. Full body, fine tannins and a beautiful fruit structure. It goes on for minutes. Made from mostly merlot with some sangiovese. Better in a year or two but beautiful already. 93 points
Castello di Nipozzano (Marchesi de’Frescobaldi) Nipozzano Chianti Rufina Riserva 2010
Bright aromas of cherries and flowers follow through to a full body with beautiful fruit and fine tannins. Vivid aftertaste of ripe fruits. A go-to Tuscan red for everyone. Drink or hold. 91 points
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Nittardi
Table 30
www.nittardi.com
No matter if they come from its vineyards in Chianti Classico or the Maremma, Nittardi’s wines are bold and rich, with loads of flavor and polished tannins. There’s a generosity that makes you want to drink them. Owners Peter Femfert and Stefania Canali insist on making the highest quality wines possible with the help of consulting enologist Carol Ferrini. I have a slight preference for their wines from Chianti Classico, which show more acidity and backbone. —JS Nittardi Maremma Toscana Ad Astra 2011
A red with very silky tannins and an attractive fruit and cocoa character. Full body, super-integrated tannins and a long finish. Better in 2015. 91 points
Nittardi Toscana Nectar Dei 2009
Sliced plums on the nose, with flowers, minerals and hazelnuts. Full body with velvety tannins and a fruity finish. Lively acidity. Energetic wine yet subtle. Drink now or hold. 93 points
Nittardi Chianti Classico Riserva 2009
Big and powerful with loads of blueberry and black-cherry character. Full and velvety with lots of pretty fruit. Velvety tannins. Give this time, if you can hold yourself back. 93 points
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Orma
www.empsonusa.com/Winery.php?prod=38
Table 31
Having secured a reputation for quality winemaking about a decade ago with his wine Oreno, created in Valdarno, a littleknown region of Tuscany, fashion icon Antonio Moretti set his sights on the Tuscan coastal area of Bolgheri, establishing the Orma winery there. The vineyards of the small property are in the heart of a region long famed for such great wines as Sassicaia, Ornellaia and Macchiole (Messorio), and Orma is now making a Bordeaux blend at the same level of quality as its neighbors. The last two vintages are genuine wow wines. —JS Orma Toscana 2009
Wow. Beautiful nose of crushed berries and coffee with hints of spices. Full body with intense red chili and dark fruits that follow through to a long, long finish. Very beautiful. Drink or hold. 95 points
Orma Toscana 2010
There is something so subtle and rich here, with chocolate, red chilies and ripe plums on the nose. Full body with velvety tannins and a juicy finish. This is so delicious now, but better in 2017. Best ever from here. A blend of 50% melot, 30% cabernet sauvignon and 20% cabernet franc. From Bolgheri, just next door to Ornellaia. 96 points
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Ornellaia
Table 55
www.ornellaia.com
If Italy had a classification system similar to Bordeaux, then Ornellaia would certainly be a first-growth. Located in the coastal region of Bolgheri, Ornellaia is a modern legend in Tuscan winemaking. Not only does it make a superb Bordeaux blend under the name of the estate, but it also produces a benchmark pure merlot called Masseto. The winery is the jewel of the Frescobaldi family’s Tuscan wine properties. Year in, year out, Ornellaia and Masseto are among the best wines of Italy, and they are among the most collectible and some of the most sought-after in the world. The second wine of Ornellaia, Le Serre Nuove, is excellent quality sometimes implausibly good for a second wine. —JS Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore 2010
A wine with a wonderful depth of berry, chocolate and hazelnut character. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a round and delicious finish. Fruitforward and exuberant. More in-your-face fruit to this wine than in many past vintages. Enticing all the same. This comes in a special bottle commemorating the anniversary of the wine being on the market. Try in 2016. 95 points
Ornellaia Bolgheri Le Serre Nuove 2011
A wine with a dense palate and ripe, round tannins. Full and very intense with a velvety textured tannin structure and a long, flavorful finish. Give it two or three years to show even more. Bordeaux blend. Superb second wine from Ornellaia. 93 points
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Petrolo
Table 32
www.petrolo.it
Artist Luca Sanjust gave up his Rome studio for a winery in the hills of Tuscany, about 50km southeast of Florence, and in the mid-1990s he began making precise yet heartfelt wines on his small estate. Today, his sangiovese-merlot blend, Torrione, and his pure merlot, Galatrona, are some of the most soughtafter wines from the region. Sanjust believes his Galatrona proves that Tuscany has a distinctive style of merlot, very different from Bordeaux or anywhere else. His recently released puresangiovese, single-vineyard red, Boggina, is a new sensation, underlining the greatness of the region’s indigenous grape; he also makes a few hundred bottles of it in amphorae. Don’t miss his best wine ever, the 2011 Galatrona. —JS Petrolo Toscana Galatrona 2011
This is a phenomenal pure merlot with blueberries, raspberries and hints of milk chocolate. Some nutmeg, too. Full body with very fine but chewy tannins and a long, intense finish. Reminds me of the amazing 1998. Best ever from here. Needs four or five years of bottle age to soften. 99 points
Petrolo Toscana Torrione 2011
There’s a beautiful purity of fruit to this young red, with currants and raspberries on the nose and palate. It’s full-bodied, with fine tannins and a fresh, clean finish. Precise and very fine. Best ever from here. A blend of sangiovese and merlot. Wonderful value for the quality. Drink or hold. 94 points
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Pianirossi
Table 33
www.pianirossi.it
Stefano Sincini is the CEO of such popular Italian fashion brands as Tod’s and Hogan, but few know that he makes wonderful, stylish wines on the coast of Tuscany. Sincini makes unique wines with Bordeaux grape types as well as those from his home region, Marche. He thinks the montepulciano grape adds a little something extra to many of his reds. See for yourself. —JS Pianirossi Maremma Toscana 2008
Aromas of ripe fruit, tar and hints of spices follow through to a full body, juicy fruit and chewy tannins. Spicy and flavorful. Drink now. 92 points
Pianirossi Maremma Toscana Solus 2008
Pretty currant and berry character, with firm tannins. Medium-to-full body and a beautiful finish. Poised and fine. Drink or hold. 91 points
Pianirossi Maremma Toscana 2007
Beautiful aromas of blackberries, dark chocolate and currants follow through to a full body with silky tannins and a juicy finish. Shaved chocolate and chili. A blend of petit verdot, montepulciano and cabernet sauvignon. Delicious now. 93 points
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Fattoria di Piazzano www.fattoriadipiazzano.it
Table 34
Since 1948, the Piazzano farm has belonged to the Bettarini family. Riccardo Bettarini took over operations from his uncle, Othello, who was the original owner. Since 1999 the farm has been run by Riccardo’s children, Ilaria and Rolando. The consulting winemaker, Emiliano Falsini, is fast-gaining recognition for his work in Tuscany, Umbria, Emilia-Romagna, Basilicata, Piedmont and Sicily. Fattoria di Piazzano consists of 34 hectares of vineyards, nestled in the gentle hills south of Empoli and crossed by the Rio di Camerota, an area not normally known for making outstanding wines. The favorable microclimate, rich clay soil and meticulous work in the fields yield especially good-quality grapes and fine wines. I like the way Piazzano focuses on single-varietal wines and succeeds with all of them. —JS Fattoria di Piazzano Colli della Toscana Centrale Toscana Merlot 2010
Blackberries, grilled meat and fresh herbs on the nose. Full body, soft, velvety tannins and a juicy, fruity finish. This is very decadent and gorgeous. Drink or hold. 92 points
Fattoria di Piazzano Colli della Toscana Centrale Colorino 2009
What a superb nose of crushed blackberries and wonderful depth, with minerals and dried flowers. Full-bodied, with superb tannins that are polished and beautiful. A fabulous red, with a wonderful depth of fruit and style. Made from pure colorino. Wonderful now. 95 points
Fattoria di Piazzano Colli della Toscana Centrale Syrah 2009
This shows a full body with a deep, rich palate of dried berries, coffee beans and cocoa powder. The depth and beauty are impressive. So rich and opulent now but will be better with age. 93 points
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Podernuovo a Palazzone www.podernuovoapalazzone.it
Table 35
This is a relatively new winery for me, and the wines are excellent. However, I wouldn’t expect anything less from father-and-son owners Paolo and Giovanni Bulgari, part of the family that owns the famous jewelry and watch brand. The wines are made in southern Tuscany on the borders of Lazio and Umbria. Son Giovanni oversees the operation with the help of consulting enologist Riccardo Cotarella. The 2009 was the first vintage. Most of the wines are made with sangiovese, but montepulciano, cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc and merlot are also grown on the 17-hectare estate. The 2010 is a step up in quality. —JS Podernuovo a Palazzone Toscana Sotirio 2010
A wine with truffles, berries and dried fruits, plus hints of dried mushrooms. Full body, with silky tannins and a juicy, fruity finish. Lovely forest-floor and fruit character. From the owners of the Bulgari jewelry company. Classy number here. Pure sangiovese. Drink or hold. 93 points
Podernuovo a Palazzone Toscana Sotirio 2009
A wine with an almost Burgundian texture to it. Full body with a lovely refined density of of fruit and silky, polished tannins. Pretty combination of cedar, berry and chocolate. A year or two will bring it all together. A pure sangiovese made near Siena by the Bulgari family. Excellent. 92 points
Podernuovo a Palazzone Toscana Therra 2010
Very attractive aromas of blackcurrants and flowers follow through to a full body, with lovely, fine tannins and an orange-peel, chocolate and mineral flavor. Polished and pretty. A blend of sangiovese, montepulciano, cabernet sauvignon and merlot. Better in 2015. 92 points
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Poggio la Noce
www.poggiolanoce.com
Table 36
A number of wineries are now making excellent wines on the hillsides overlooking Florence. One of the more recently established is Poggio la Noce, owned by Enzo Schiano and Claire Beliard, who bought the property in 2000. The vineyards are planted in soils that are a blend of Tuscan stones, including shale, clay and limestone, with chalky calcium deposits. This type of soil drains exceptionally well and is ideal for sangiovese, which makes up the majority of the blends from Poggio la Noce. —JS Poggio la Noce Toscana Gigio 2010
Very intense aromas of currants, blackberries and minerals. Full body with fine tannins and a beautiful finish. A blend of 90% sangiovese and 10% merlot. Made on 1.3 hectares near Florence. Better after 2014. 92 points
Poggio la Noce Toscana Gigetto 2010
A focused, clean red with light currant and cherry color, as well as hints of new wood. Full body with firm tannins and a juicy finish. I think a year or two more of bottle age will bring this together wonderfully. 90% sangiovese and 10% merlot. 91 points
Poggio la Noce Toscana Gigio 2008
Aromatic red with lavender, heather and hints of berries. Full body with fine tannins and a fruity finish. Lovely integrated wine, with a texture that makes you want to drink it. Made in the vineyards above Florence from 90% sangiovese and 10% merlot. Drink now. 91 points
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Principe Corsini
www.principecorsini.com
Table 37
The Corsinis are an aristocratic Tuscan family with an incredible history and impeccable taste – much like the wines they make on their estates in Chianti Classico and the Maremma. Duccio Corsini lives at the Corsinis’ Villa Le Corti in Chianti Classico, and continues to search for innovations in winemaking there. One of his latest is a pure sangiovese called Zac, which is made from a single vineyard on the estate. Zac shares much of the same character and richness as the Don Tommaso Chianti Classico, but with a little more structure and tension. Duccio is also very proud of Birillo, a red from the Maremma. It’s a bold blend of cabernet sauvignon and merlot, and offers excellent quality for the price. —JS Principe Corsini Maremma Toscana Marsiliana 2008
A red that shows a solid core of fruit and tannins that are chewy yet punctuated and beautiful. Needs two or three years to come together, but already shows poise. Best ever from here. From cabernet sauvignon, merlot and petit verdot. 93 points
Principe Corsini Toscana Zac 2009
A plummy wine with dried citrus and cedar plus hints of fruit tea. Full body, fresh acidity and a tangy finish. Delicious. A pure sangiovese from a single vineyard. Drink now or hold. 93 points
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Castello di Querceto www.castellodiquerceto.it
Table 38
This Chianti Classico estate has been making award-winning wines since the 1910s, but it really began bottling worldclass reds in the 1980s. Under the deft hand of owner Alessandro François, Querceto has developed some excellent, age-worthy Super Tuscan reds such as the pure Sangiovese La Corte, or the cabernetmerlot blend Cignale. The riserva Chiantis are equally impressive. What I like about the wines here is their tension, form and structure for laying down in cellars. They improve wonderfully with age. —JS Castello di Querceto Colli della Toscana Centrale Il Sole di Alessandro 2007
Interesting aromas of smoked meat, dark berries and spices follow through to a full body, with soft, velvety tannins and a long, rich finish. Balanced and delicious already. 91 points
Castello di Querceto Chianti Classico Il Picchio Riserva 2009
Full-bodied Chianti Classico with blackberries and spices such as cumin and chocolate. Round, caressing texture. Drink now or hold. 93 points
Castello di Querceto Colli della Toscana Centrale La Corte 2007
Love the nose of ripe blackberries and bramble berries. A little mint, too. Full body, with velvety, round tannins and a fruity finish. Nice combination of ripe fruit and new wood, but not overpowering. Give it two to three years in the bottle. 92 points
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Renieri
www.renierimontalcino.com
Table 39
Marco Bacci, of Chianti Classico’s wellrespected Castello di Bossi wine estate, bought this gorgeous Brunello vineyard in the late 1990s, but it’s only now, with the vines at a good age to produce superlative grapes, that the wines are coming into their own. Renieri has been making excellent wines, both Brunello di Montalcinos and Super Tuscans, since the 2006 vintage. His recently released Renieri Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2006 and Renieri Toscana Re di Renieri 2009 are his best ever. His Mega 2008 is mega quality. —JS Renieri Toscana Re di Renieri 2009
Complex but subtle aromas of licorice, minerals, blueberries and Indian spices. Full body with super-racy tannins and a gorgeous finish. It goes on for minutes. Cabernet sauvignon, merlot and petit verdot. Fantastic red. Better in 2015. 95 points
Renieri Toscana Mega 2008
Wonderful aromas of crushed blackberries and blueberries, with hints of currants. Full body with beautifully integrated tannins and a long, long finish. The density and tannins are in balance. It will be in fabulous in about 2015. A blend of cabernet sauvignon and sangiovese. 94 points
Renieri Toscana Regina di Renieri 2009
Attractive aromas of ripe dark fruits and Christmas pudding follow through to a full body, with a chewy tannin structure and a long, juicy finish. Lots going on. Best after 2014. 92 points
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Riecine
Table 40
www.riecine.it
I have been drinking Riecine for more than two decades and the wines have always had a wonderful finesse and beauty. The wine estate, which is located just outside the Chianti Classico town of Gaiole, was first created by my late friend, Englishman John Dunkley, but it was the hard work of his winemaker Sean O’Callaghan that really generated the following around this wine. Everything Sean makes here shows a deft winemaking hand, but more important, they are wines that the Irish winemaker loves enjoys drinking himself. Try them and see for yourself. —JS Riecine Chianti Classico 2011
A beautiful red with plums, flowers and hints of cedar. Full body, round tannins and a fresh finish. Balanced and delicious. Drink now. 91 points
Riecine Toscana La Gioia 2009
Aromas of blueberries and dried flowers follow through to a full body, fine tannins and a delicious finish. Just opening up now. 90 points
Riecine Chianti Classico Riserva 2009
Aromas of blueberries, blackberries and dark chocolate follow through to a full body with soft tannins and a fruity, light vanilla and coffee aftertaste. Drink now. 93 points
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Rocca delle Macie
www.roccadellemacie.com
Table 41
Rocca delle Macie is a major player in Tuscany’s famous wine region of Chianti Classico, as well as the Maremma. It has four estates where it produces wonderful Chianti Classico and outstanding-quality Super Tuscans from cabernet sauvignon and other varietals. I have always been impressed with clarity and precision of the winemaking at Rocca delle Macie, and the wines provide some of the best value in Tuscany. Owner Sergio Zingarelli has the passion and determination to make great wines here. —JS Rocca delle Macie Toscana Roccato 2008
Another very fruity 2008, with plums and ripe strawberries on the nose and palate. Full and velvety, with soft tannins and a juicy finish. From sangiovese and cabernet sauvignon. Drink now. 91 points
Rocca delle Macie Toscana Ser Gioveto 2008
Blackberries fresh herbs and blueberries on the nose. Full body with velvety tannins and a fruity finish. Needs time to come together. Drink now. 90 points
Rocca delle Macie Sangiovese Syrah Toscana Sasyr 2010
A wine with sweet-cherry and chocolate character. Full body, round and fresh. A little jammy, but fresh. Why wait? 91 points
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Agricola San Felice
www.agricolasanfelice.com
Table 42
Agricola San Felice is in the heart of the Chianti Classico and is much more than an excellent winery and a beautiful resort. It also engages in experimental research projects, most of them directed towards extracting the full potential of sangiovese. The first experimental vineyards were planted in the early 1970s to research vine-training systems, crossing of varieties and planting densities. Beginning in the 1980s, San Felice initiated a very fruitful scientific collaboration with the Dipartimento di Ortoflorofrutticoltura of the University of Florence. Its purpose was twofold: to preserve local biodiversity resources and to demonstrate that local native varieties could bring about surprising discoveries if subjected to modern scientific examination. All of the results of this research and experimentation have been applied systematically to the estate vineyards with the goal of improving quality. The challenge has certainly paid off. I consistently highly rate such wines as Vigorello, Poggio Rosso and Pugnitello. —JS Agricola San Felice Toscana Vigorello 2010
A refined and focused red with chocolate, currants and berries on the nose and palate. Full body, integrated tannins and a fresh, clean finish. Very polished. Made predominately from cabernet sauvignon, merlot and petit verdot. Open after 2014 when the tannins will be more integrated into the wine. 92 points
Agricola San Felice Toscana Pugnitello 2008
A wine with floral, berry and toasted oak character that turns to vanilla. Full and velvety. Needs two to three years of bottle age to soften. From an ancient Tuscan grape variety called Pugnitello. 92 points
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Tenuta San Guido (Sassicaia) www.sassicaia.com
Table 49
The home of Tuscany’s legendary red, Sassicaia, this fabulous coastal property in Bolgheri takes your breath away – and comes complete with a stud farm that rears world-class racehorses. I have tasted every commercial vintage of its wonderful cabernet sauvignon blend, and it is amazing how the wines of Sassicaia evolve with such beauty and grace. This is a wine that deserves to be in every serious collector’s cellar – and, in many cases, it already is. Owner Nicolo Incisa della Rocchetta says the 2009 Sassicaia is one of his all-time favorites, and I agree. The 2010 is excellent as well. Guidalberto is often confused with the second wine of Sassicaia but it is a soft, enjoyable red made from nearby vineyard, also in Bolgheri. —JS Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri Sassicaia 2010
The 2010 Sassicaia was just released and it’s an outstanding bottle: I think that people are going to love it. It’s very aromatic, with currant, dried berry, cocoa bean and hints of wood. It’s full-bodied, with intense but very polished tannins and a long finish. It’s very refined and beautiful, with a tangy finish in which the cabernet franc comes through. Lively. Hard not to drink now. 94 points
Tenuta San Guido Toscana Guidalberto 2011
Aromas of fresh mint, berries and currants. Full body with chewy tannins and a berry, vanilla, chocolate and currant aftertaste. This is a very beautiful wine from the makers of Sassicaia, and a fraction of the price of the big wine. A blend of 60% cabernet sauvignon and 40% merlot. Better in 2015. 92 points
Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri Sassicaia 2004
A wine with beautiful aromas of currants and light chocolate, with hints of sweet tobacco. It’s full-bodied and very refined, with integrated tannins. It still needs time to reach its full potential, but it’s a beautiful wine with excellent length and class. Drink or hold. 94 points
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Tenuta Sette Ponti
www.tenutasetteponti.it
Table 31
Fashion entrepreneur Antonio Moretti has a passion for great wines. He took control of his family’s vineyards at Sette Ponti, about 30km north of Arezzo, and began making top-quality reds, Oreno and Crognolo, in the late 1990s. He continues to make incredible wines. In fact, most of his releases in the past decade have been worldclass. The 2011 Crognolo was one of the best-value fine wines from Tuscany last year and the Oreno from the same year was classic quality. Moretti is also the owner of the up-and-coming Bolgheri estate of Orma, as well as Sicily’s Feudo Maccari. —JS Tenuta Sette Ponti Toscana Crognolo 2011
Impressive aromas of blackberries, currants and flowers follow through to a full body with super-fine tannins and a long, long finish. Super-classy. Best ever Crognolo. Always great value. 90 per cent sangiovese and 10 per cent merlot. Better in 2016. 95 points
Tenuta Sette Ponti Toscana Oreno 2011
There is a purity of fruit in this young Tuscan red, with flowers, citrus fruit and currants. Full body with firm, silky tannins that are ultra-fine and wonderfully polished. The structure builds to a racy finish. This is a Bordeaux blend that is all in harmony. Give it time: the tannins and fruit will melt together. Try in 2016. 96 points
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Terrabianca
www.terrabianca.com
Table 43
I am expecting even better wines from Terrabianca as its new owner Patrick de Ladoucette begins to understand and improve the wonderful vineyards of this topquality wine estate in an excellent area of Chianti Classico, near the town of Radda. Ladoucette is a famous wine producer in France’s Loire Valley and Burgundy, so he appreciates subtle, complex wines. And that’s what Terrabianca produces - reds with structure and refined fruit. I am always partial to the Campaccio, a blend of sangiovese and merlot. —JS Terrabianca Toscana Campaccio 2009
Very perfumed, with blueberry and blackberry aromas. Full body, soft, silky tannins and a long, flavorful finish. A blend of sangiovese and merlot. Needs about two or three years to come together still but already very attractive to taste. 93 points
Terrabianca Toscana Campaccio Selezione 2007
This is round and velvety with delicious berry, chocolate and spice character. Delicious now. 91 points
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Castello del Terriccio www.terriccio.it
Table 44
Gian Annibale Rossi di Medelana Serafini Ferri has dedicated most of his life to producing world-class wines at his Terriccio estate on the Tuscan coast. With the help of his long-time consulting enologist and friend Carlo Ferrini, he has produced compelling wines from both sangiovese and Bordeaux grape types. The whites are also excellent. With a large part of his vineyards planted in the late 1980s, the vines are now producing incredibly high-quality grapes and at low yields to assure the highest quality. This is an estate that’s only now coming into its own in quality winemaking. —JS Castello del Terriccio Toscana Lupicaia 2006
Strong aromas of blueberries, blackberries and raspberries. Floral nose with dark chocolate, spices and sandalwood. Full-bodied with polished tannins. Well balanced but racy with a long-lasting, multi-layered finish. 93 points
Castello del Terriccio Toscana Tassinaia 2007
Lots of spices, meat and berry character on the nose. Full, soft and caressing on the palate. Plenty of fruit. Earthy, decadent style. Drink now. 92 points
Castello del Terriccio Toscana 2006
This is slightly lean but extremely rich at the same time with currant and sweet-tobacco character as well as toasted oak. Some raspberry character, too. Full body, round, firm tannins and a fruity finish. Better in 2015. Made from cabernet sauvignon, sangiovese and merlot. 92 points
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Tua Rita
Table 45
www.tuarita.it
This coastal winery built its global reputation on a fabulously rich merlot called Redigaffi, which came onto the Tuscan wine scene in the early 1990s. Within just a few years, many top wine collectors, particularly in Hong Kong, were looking for the wine. The 1997 Redigaffi, in fact, received numerous 100-point scores - mostly from me. The 2011 Redigaffi was one of my favourite Italian wines in 2013, receiving a megascore of 99 points - don’t miss it. The Bordeaux blend Giusto di Notri is also coming into its own. —JS Tua Rita Toscana Giusto di Notri 2011
What a beautiful nose of blueberries, cedar and dried flowers such as lavender. Full body with very fine tannins and a pretty aftertaste. It shows chocolate, berry and hints of Spanish cedar. This Bordeaux blend of mostly cabernet sauvignon could one day rival its great sibling wine from Tua Rita, Redigaffi. Better in 2016. 95 points
Tua Rita Toscana Giusto di Notri 2009
Loads of milk-chocolate and berry character on the nose. Full body with velvety tannins and a fruity finish. Delicious. 60% cabernet sauvignon, 30% merlot and 10% cabernet franc. Drink or hold. 92 points
Tua Rita Toscana Redigaffi 2011
I love the aromas of violets with liquorice and subtle brown sugar. This is a fullbodied merlot with fabulous tannins and a wonderful finish. It shows reserve and balance, with striking, complex flavours of orange peel, light berries and chocolate. Pure magic. Goes on for minutes. One of the best Redigaffis ever. Better in 2016. 99 points
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Castello Vicchiomaggio www.vicchiomaggio.it
Table 46
Castello Vicchiomaggio is owned by the Matta family, who has been quietly making excellent wines in the Chianti Classico town of Greve in Chianti for more than half a century. My first encounter with their wines was in the 1980s, when I lived in London and enjoyed their reds in various top Italian restaurants. I also met John Matta, who is half Italian and half English. Vicchiomaggio remains true to its long-established dedication to quality - whether its the single-vineyard Chianti Classico or Super Tuscan Ripa delle More, a blend of 50% sangiovese, 30% cabernet sauvignon and 20% merlot. The reds are outstanding quality year in, year out. —JS Castello Vicchiomaggio Toscana Ripa delle More 2010
A stylish wine with plum and blueberry character, plus hints of fresh herbs. Full body with soft, velvety tannins and a long, intense finish. Needs at least two or three years to soften. 50% sangiovese, 30% cabernet sauvignon and 20% merlot. 92 points
Castello Vicchiomaggio Chianti Classico Vigna La Prima Riserva 2010
Fascinating aromas of very ripe dark fruits and chocolate follow through to a full body with wonderful tannins and delicious fruit on the finish. Goes on for minutes. Gorgeous now. 92 points
Castello Vicchiomaggio Toscana FSM 2009
This is very delicious and approachable now with silky tannins and beautiful fruit. Full body and plenty of subtle fruit that shows currant and berry character. Long finish. Drink or hold. 92 points
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Fattoria Viticcio
www.fattoriaviticcio.com
Table 47
A new generation of winemakers took the reins of various estates in Tuscany in the 1960s, and began making excellent wines through modern viticulture and winemaking methods in the 1970s and 1980s. Alessandro Landini at Fattoria Viticcio was one of them. Today, Landini consistently makes outstanding wines. In fact, it is difficult to say if Viticcio’s Chianti Classico riservas are better than the two well-regarded Super Tuscans Monile and Prunaio. All Landini’s wines age wonderfully. —JS Fattoria Viticcio Toscana Prunaio 2010
Beautiful, vivid aromas of blueberries and currants with hints of flowers. Full body, with wonderfully soft, silky tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Extremely harmonious red. One of the best ever from here. Pure sangiovese. Better in 2015. 94 points
Fattoria Viticcio Toscana Monile 2009
Lots of currant and mint character on the nose suggests lots of ripe cabernet sauvignon in the blend. Full body with super-well-integrated tannins and a fresh, clean, direct finish. Turns a little austere, but long and enticing. Better in 2015. 94 points
Fattoria Viticcio Chianti Classico Riserva 2009
Blueberry and fresh mushrooms with hints of flowers on the nose. Full body with ultra-fine tannins and a beautiful finish. This is a joy to taste. Drink now. 94 points
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Volpaia
Table 48
www.volpaia.com
I have had a long-term love affair with the wines of Volpaia, especially its Super Tuscan blends such as Balifico. I was enjoying these wines back in the 1980s, and my enthusiasm continues. A lot of it has to do with the freshness and elegance of the wines, which is mostly due to the high altitude of the vineyards in Chianti Classico. Indue is an interesting and new addition to the Volpaia range. It means “the two of us” in Italian and underlines the fact that the wine is made by brother-and-sister duo Nicolo and Federica Mascheroni Stianti; the marriage of two properties, Castello di Volpaia and Prelius; and the blending of two grape varieties, sangiovese and cabernet sauvignon. —JS Volpaia Toscana Indue 2008
Aromas of plums and currants follow through to a full body with very silky tannins and a savory, fruity finish. Very enjoyable now. A wine from two producers, Volpaia and Prelius. 91 points
Volpaia Toscana Balifico 2009
This is a long-time favorite. Decadent aromas of black cherries with currants follow through to full body with soft, silky tannins and a long, flavorful finish. A blend of sangiovese and cabernet sauvignon. Try in 2015. 93 points
Volpaia Chianti Classico Riserva 2009
Dried fruits with hints of pepper and dark chocolate on the nose. Full and chewy yet balanced and delicious. Drink now. 92 points
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Notes
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