WINE REVIEWS
2015
Castelgiocondo
Brunello Di Montalcino
This property in Montalcino is near Siena and was purchased by the Frescobaldi's in 1989. Situated at an elevation of nearly 1,000 feet, these vineyards are planted in galestro soils with a warm southwestern exposure.
From a glorious vintage, this Brunello reveals perfumed aromas of violets and freshly cut flowers. There is a deep vibrant core of brambly blue and black fruits that are woven together with espresso and dark mocha. The tannins are sleek, tapered and intertwined with firm acidity. This youthful wine will reward those who are patient.
2015
Tenuta Perano Rialzi
Chianti Classico
Gran Selezione
This estate is situated within rolling hills of Gaiole in the heart of Chianti Classico. The vineyards are at 1,600 feet elevation with a south, southwestern exposure. This Gran Selezione Chianti is built on finesse and elegance. This wine reveals itself with bright dark cherry, incense and baking spices. The Sangiovese is classically styled with saddle leather, sweet tobacco and earth. There are no rough edges in this beauty after being aged for 36 months. The tannins are round and delicate with a sense of maturity. The lovely acidity continues through the finish.
2015
Castiglion Del Bosco
Brunello Di Montalcino
The history of Castiglion del Bosco dates back to 1100 A.D. as part of a small community in the corner of Tuscany. In 1967, Consorzio del Brunello di Montalcino was established, and Castilion del Bosco was one of the few remaining founding members. In 2003, the estate was restored to its former glory, thanks to Massimo Ferragamo. Having fallen in love with the Capanna vineyard, he bought the estate to fulfill his Tuscan dream.
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The color is intense and deeply red. The bouquet is complex with fresh raspberry, tobacco, saddle leather and a hint of violets. This is a full-bodied Brunello that is persistent and has incredible progression on the pallet. As I swirled the wine in the glass and tasted it, I uncovered flavors of herbs, spices, candied licorice. Within the core was a creaminess surrounded by finely grained and polished tannins. The finish was incredibly long and kept going for minutes. This wine should open and gain even more length with time. A Bellissimo Brunello!
By Perry Miroballi
2016 Strada al Sasso Chianti Classico
Gran Selezione
The estate covers 2,500 acres of rolling hills, lush green forests and ancient cypress trees with medieval stone buildings dating back hundreds of years. Strada Al Sasso is the flagship wine from this property. It is crafted from single vineyard, single block Sangiovese. This exceptional micro-cru was planted in 1998 and is located in a wind-swept corner of the estate.
The color is dark with black plums and blueberry. The nose is lively and aromatic with earth, clove, bay leaf and spice. The palate reveals an amazing structure with true depth and layers of flavor. This beautifully made Chianti Classico shows blueberry, fresh ground coffee and dark chocolate that is balanced and creamy. The tannins are there and may appear to some as being a little gripping and lingering. The acids make this wine pair with Northern Italian dishes like roasted chicken, tortellini with Bolognese, gamey meats and assorted cheeses such as Asiago and Manchego.
By Perry Miroballi
2013 Frescobaldi
Montesodi Toscana
Translated as “hard mountain," this cru IGT wine is considered one of the best expressions of Sangiovese from Frescobaldi’s Castello de Nipozzano estate. It is located in the Chianti Fufina subzone consisting of rocky soils mixed with clay and limestone. This 100% Sangiovese is aged in French and Austrian Oak for 18 months. The medium ruby color opens to a wine with some maturity and nuances of earth and leather. The mid-palate has a hint of creaminess supported by fresh acidity. This textbook Sangiovese is more rustic than traditional in style, yet well balanced.
2018 Le Serre Nuove
Dell' Ornellaia
This exotic red blend derives from the iconic Bolgheri estate of Ornellaia located on the Tuscan coast. The makeup of this wine is younger vines of Cabernet Sauvignon 33%, Merlot 32%, Cabernet Franc 18% and 17% Petit Verdot. Behind its deeply colored ruby hue is a bouquet of purple violets. Within is a racy wine with a framework of Morello Cherries, mixed red berries and a hint of anise. This wine speaks more of finesse and elegance than power. There are some complex baking spices and textures infused into the background of this seamless beauty.