A week in Tuscany (and Lots of wines)

Last week, my wife and I were invited by a friend to stay at his rented villa, just outside Montespertoli (about 20 minutes southwest of Florence). Being newly empty nesters, we jumped at the chance. We had a wonderful time, touring, tasting and relaxing. I tried to keep track of the wines we drank and think this is about all of them. It was nice to rekindle my love for Italian wines in general and Tuscan wines in particular.

One disappointment was how many times the wine I ordered on a wine list was out of stock or more often, they only had a different vintage. usually, this involved ordering a 2010 and being brought a 2009 or maybe a 2011.It became an almost daily experience, sometimes requiring three times before getting a bottle that i wanted. Yes, there is a difference in the vintages, but its also about getting what i ordered. In fact, I tried on three occasions to order the 2010 Poliziano Asinone vin Nobile de Montepulciano (and yes, i know its young). I was 0 for 3 in getting it, apparently making this a unicorn wine. That said, I had a lot of good, many great a couple ethereal wines. Of course, being with my wife and friends in such a beautiful place made even the average wines seem special.

We flew out of the Toronto Airport. For a small fee, we spent time in the Air France Lounge with "free" food, wine and beer.

• 2013 Chateau Bel Air ( A de Luze & Fils) 78 Points

  France, Bordeaux

  (10/19/2015)

  Well, first wine on a trip to Italy. In the Air France Club Room at the Toronto airport. I switched to Corona. Purple in color. The nose is not bad. Cherries, dust and green bell peppers. On the palate, this is thin, diluted and weak. Simple. Like wine flavored water. My first 2013 and while obviously not meant to be a great wine, this was not worth drinking. Oh well, better wines lay ahead.

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Our luggage was lost, the rental car took 2.5 hours, but we finally made it to the Villa. It was great to sit outside in the sunshine, with gorgeous views and start drinking some wine.

• 2014 Marchesi de' Frescobaldi Pomino Castello di Pomino Bianco 89 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Pomino

  (10/19/2015)

  First wine in Tuscany. Outside on the patio overlooking the Tuscan Hills in the countryside. Maybe that helped the wine. Well of course it did. Still, it was good. Light gold in color. The nose has minerals and slight pineapple. Full bodied. Refreshing on the palate. Ripe fruit, sort of tropical. delicious.

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• 2014 Cantina Terlan Chardonnay 87 Points

  Italy, Trentino-Alto Adige, Alto Adige, Alto Adige - Südtirol

  (10/19/2015)

  Nice wine but not in the league with the Kreuth. Still, it is enjoyable. Light gold in color. Tart green apples on the nose. Slightly viscous. Tart acidity. I like the cut but would prefer a bit more stuffing. Nice wine though.

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• 2014 Fattoria Di Pancole Vernaccia di San Gimignano 88 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, San Gimignano, Vernaccia di San Gimignano

  (10/21/2015)

  A new producer for me. This doc really flies under the radar back at home. Too bad as the wines are very nice. Watery gold in color. The nose is very nice with lemons and minerals. Refreshing. Nice body. Nice acidity. Nothing profound here, but very enjoyable. Food friendly but works on its own.

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• 2012 Kellerei Kaltern Caldaro Lagrein Spigel 87 Points

  Italy, Trentino-Alto Adige, Alto Adige, Alto Adige - Südtirol

  (10/19/2015)

  Purple in color. The nose is plums and celery. An odd but not completely off aroma in this wine. There is a nice complexity at this point. I doubt it gets better or makes old bones, but it is an enjoyable quaff. Nicely balanced but it works better with food. Medium tannins. Not great but nice.

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It was Sunday, so most places were closed. We found ourselves in a small Pizzeria in Montespertoli. Actually, we were across the street, in a store with tables and chairs. The kitchen was across the street. The pizza was adequate. They did not speak English, our Italian is weak. But we knew how to order Vino Rosso, the only red wine on the menu. Then back to the Villa for more wine and to bed.

• NV Bramoso Montecarlo 80 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Montecarlo

  (10/19/2015)

  On a Sunday night in Montespertoli, everything was pretty much closed. We found a pizzeria was open and ordered a bottle of this. It was fine for the circumstances. I am guessing a Sangiovese blend. No vintage designation. It was on the menu as Rosso wine. Oddly enough the back label took the time to say the wine was "Vino Morbido, fruttato e armonico che si distinguere per la sua piacevolezza". After worrying about a Morbid wine, we google translated that to mean "Wine Soft, fruity and harmonious that will distinguish for its pleasantness ".
  The wine is ruby/purple but flat in color. The nose is dusty with cherries. Smooth and generic red wine. Slightly elevated levels of acidity. Its fine. Nothing really wrong. Probably not great storage and maybe old. Who knows. It worked fine with decent pizza. Ten euros off the list. We each drank it and finished the bottle.

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• 2012 Marchesi Mazzei Chianti Classico Fonterutoli 90 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Chianti, Chianti Classico DOCG

  (10/19/2015)

  This is drinking quite well right now. Really nice nose with dusty cherries and a bit of crunchy leaves. Medium bodied. Nice backbone of acidity. Really nice texture, sort of slippery velvet. Lots of fresh cherries with some herbal notes (sage?). Worked great with dinner of cheeses, breads and pasta.

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Visiting Felsina winery in Chianti.

• 2013 Fattoria di Fèlsina Berardenga I Sistri Toscana IGT 88 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Toscana IGT

  (10/19/2015)

  Gold/green in color. The nose has lots of vanilla on it along with some lemon curd. On the palate, very lemony and viscous. Slight heat on the finish. With air the grapefruits really come out, especially on the finish. Not really my style of white wine, but nice.

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• 2012 Fattoria di Fèlsina Berardenga Chianti Colli Senesi 86 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Chianti, Chianti Colli Senesi

  (10/19/2015)

  Meh. Ruby/purple in color. The nose is not giving up anything. Some sour cherries on the finish. This is thin and tannic. The finish is the best part, long with some sour cherries. Maybe this is just shut down right now, but not something I would have expected.

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• 2012 Fattoria di Fèlsina Berardenga Chianti Classico 91 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Chianti, Chianti Classico DOCG

  (10/20/2015)

  Tasted at the winery. Sour cherries and dust on a tight nose. More open on the palate with big sour cherries and some herbal notes. Tannic. The finish, however, is quite smooth. Needs time.

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• 2011 Fattoria di Fèlsina Berardenga Chianti Classico Riserva 92 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Chianti, Chianti Classico DOCG

  (10/19/2015)

  OK, now we are talking. A big step up. This may get better but is outstanding right now. The nose has dusty cherries, tobacco, smoke and licorice. Very pretty. On the palate, there are strong tannins but already showing layers of complexity. Lots of cherry fruit with some charred earthiness. Great texture. Delicious right now.

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• 2009 Fattoria di Fèlsina Berardenga Chianti Classico Riserva Rancia 93 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Chianti, Chianti Classico DOCG

  (10/19/2015)

  I was quite impressed with this. I don't usually think these show so well young, but this bottle was rocking. The nose has cherries, sour cherries, dust, slight forest floor and spice. On the palate, there is a lot of upfront fruit. Some spice on the palate. I found this robust but with a background of elegance, neither of which I usually find in Rancia. To me, it is usually a brooding wine at this young stage. We tend to buy only the better vintages, so it was nice to be able to taste this. In fact, I would have bought some there, but they were sold out.

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• 2009 Fattoria di Fèlsina Berardenga Fontalloro 93 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Toscana IGT

  (10/19/2015)

  This is, as expected, really tight. I would give it a lot of air, or better yet, wait a while. Ruby/purple in color. The nose is tight, but with air it shows cherries, raspberries, herbs (tarragon) and spice. On the palate, this is also tight. Great texture though. With air, it has big cherry fruit. Nice acidity. Lots of firm tannins. Give it plenty of air, but in 5 to ten years, this will be even better.

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• 2010 Fattoria di Fèlsina Berardenga Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colonia 94 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Chianti, Chianti Classico DOCG

  (10/19/2015)

  Wow. My first time trying this wine. I didn't know they made it. It used to be an IGT but now it is a Gran Selezione. The nose has cherries, herbs, dust and espresso notes. With air, some tobacco comes out. Great texture. On the palate, this has tight layering that unwinds in the glass. Cherries and raspberries along with some spice. Firm tannins. Long, long finish. It is expensive, around $100 a bottle, but this was really good. I ended up buying a bottle (and a 2007 IGT version) as it is not something I ever see. I hope it shows this well, but I will cellar for a while.

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• 2005 Fattoria di Fèlsina Berardenga Vin Santo del Chianti Classico 94 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Chianti, Vin Santo del Chianti Classico

  (10/19/2015)

  There are a lot of Vin Santo's made but very few good ones. Felsina's has always been one I like. This was no exception. Iced tea in color. The nose has honey, apricots, raisins, and toffee. Viscous and sweet but not overly so. Great acidity. A little goes a long way. Honey, apricots and figs on the palate. Tightly packed layers. Slightly oxidized which I found interesting and not a problem. Long, long finish.

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Lunch in Chianti

• NV Lo Sparviere di Gussalli Beretta Franciacorta Brut Cuvee 7 88 Points

  Italy, Lombardia, Franciacorta DOCG

  (10/19/2015)

  Ordered a glass at Ristorante Albergaccio di Castellina in Tuscany. Great restaurant with really creative food. The wine was light golden in color. The nose has peaches and some honey. A bit of butteryness, must have gone thru some ML. It is round and delicious. Not especially crisp, but quite nice. We were at the tail end of lunch so I assume the bottle had seen some air. I would assume this is an inexpensive bottle (5Euros per glass) and at that price, I would think there is good value here.

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• 2012 Montevertine Toscana IGT 93 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Toscana IGT

  (10/19/2015)

  Ordered off the list at Ristorante Albergaccio di Castellina in Tuscany (65 Euros), this is drinking quite well already. Ruby/purple in color. The nose has lots of cherries with some saddle leather and grilled herbs. On the palate, this is a seductive wine that is drinking quite well at this young stage. Juicy cherries and dark cherries with some damp leather notes on the palate. Great with the food. Good acidity. Long finish. A great compliment to our lunch!

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Visiting Fontodi.

• 2014 Fontodi Meriggio Colli della Toscana Centrale IGT 89 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Colli della Toscana Centrale IGT

  (10/20/2015)

  This is a Sauvignon Blanc from Tuscany. I liked it although I never would pick out the location blind. Very bright, green/gold in color. The nose is pretty grassy with slight tropical fruits. There is a nice slightly oily texture with tart acidity. Orange fruit on the palate, especially the finish. Around $25.

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• 2012 Fontodi Chianti Classico 92 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Chianti, Chianti Classico DOCG

  (10/20/2015)

  This is always one of my favorite Chianti Classico's. It has a dusty nose with plenty of black cherry fruit. Also some tarragon. Very tannic at this point. Quite young. Good acidity. Lots of black cherry fruit too. Plenty of depth. Needs time, but this is one of the best examples of a Chianti Classico out there.

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• 2009 Fontodi Flaccianello della Pieve Colli della Toscana Centrale IGT 95 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Colli della Toscana Centrale IGT

  (10/20/2015)

  I was quite impressed with this wine especially for the vintage. While this may be more accessible than most vintages, it is still a serious wine that will improve with ageing. Ruby in color with some purple. The nose has plums, cherries, dust and slight mint. Very tannic. Quite structured and complex. Lots of ripe cherry and plum fruit on the palate. Depth. Long finish. Its expensive, but worth it. Hold for five years though.

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• 2009 Fontodi Syrah Case Via Colli della Toscana Centrale IGT 90 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Colli della Toscana Centrale IGT

  (10/20/2015)

  As we make Syrah, I am always interested to get a chance to try other Syrahs. There are some in Italy, but not too many, so this was a treat. Ruby/purple in color. The nose is earthy with boysenberries. 14% Alc. On the palate, this is medium bodied. Nice tart boysenberry fruit. Good acidity. This comes across as cooler climate in style. Not what I was expecting for Tuscany and I assume that is more a style choice. I don't think blind I would call this as Syrah. No green notes, but the fruit was not particularly ripe. That said, this is Italy, and this wine needs to be served at the table with dinner. In that light, this is an excellent wine that is quite good and very enjoyable.

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Dinner (I forgot the name of the place).

• 2007 Moris Farms Maremma Toscana Avvoltore 93 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Maremma, Maremma Toscana

  (10/20/2015)

  Off the list in a restaurant in Montespertoli, Tuscany. My favorite winery name in Italy. And this wine is just as good. IIRC, this is a Cab/sangiovese blend (maybe other stuff too). Ruby/purple in color. The nose has cassis and cherries with anise, white pepper and charred earth. On the palate, this is in a good spot. Cassis and cherries with mocha notes. Layers of complexity. Nice balance. Lovely texture. Long finish. Great with our dinner. Around 65 Euros off the list and well worth it.

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Visiting Antonori. One of the most impressive wineries I have ever visited. Wow. The top tier tour is not cheap, but they give you your money's worth in wine.

• 2013 Castello della Sala (Antinori) Umbria Cervaro della Sala 89 Points

  Italy, Umbria

  (10/20/2015)

  Its been a while since I have had this wine. Probably 15 years. I liked the wines then but my tastes have moved from butterscotch laced Chardonnays. Apparently, now it also has 10% Grechetto in an effort to soften it. Light silvery gold in color. The nose has vanilla and lemons. It is tight on opening but the acidity is good. With some air and warmth, this improves. It loses some of the vanilla and gets this sort of steely lime quality in addition to the other citrus. There is still oak on this, but more of vanilla than fresh cut lumber. If you like that style, this is probably a few points higher.

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• 2010 Antinori Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Badia a Passignano 89 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Chianti, Chianti Classico DOCG

  (10/20/2015)

  I was suprised to find out this was now labelled as the Gran Selezione. Again, it had been a while since I tried this. I had always preferred the Villa Antinori for the same price. Our tour guide said this was made more in the traditional style. Perhaps. The nose is tight. With air, it shows cherries and spice and a slight celery note. Firm tannins. On the palate, this is medium bodied with cherries and slight leather. Slight heat on the finish. The bottle was pop and pour, so perhaps this just needed some air to open. In the 30 minutes I had with it, it was very good, but never took that final step to greatness. It seemed to have potential though, so perhaps it might.

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• 2010 Pian Delle Vigne (Antinori) Brunello di Montalcino 93 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino

  (10/20/2015)

  I have always liked this bottling. I know some don't like its more international style. Perhaps, but it is seductive and accessible and over the years, I find it ages better than it gets credit for on release. The nose is sweaty with cherries and some slight tea notes. Also some tarragon. On the palate, this is soft and easier to drink right now than most 2010's. Still some tannins to deal with though. Nice cherries with a mint finish. Some tight layering.

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• 2012 Antinori Tignanello 94 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Toscana IGT

  (10/20/2015)

  My favorite wine in the Antinori stable of wines as a general rule. They have now changed the blend (not sure when they did this) to include 80% Sangiovese, 15% Cab, and 5% Cab Franc (used to be 20% Cab Sauv). The nose has dark cherries and spice with some vanilla and slight tobacco. Great juicy, slick texture. Firm tannins. A really long finish. As we were ahead of schedule, I got to enjoy a couple of glasses of this over about 35 minutes. It needs some time, of course, and the score may rise a point or two. I think it peaks in around 8 to 10 more years.

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• 2013 Tenuta Guado al Tasso (Antinori) Bolgheri Cont'Ugo 91 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Bolgheri

  (10/20/2015)

  My first time trying this wine (or hearing about it). Served with lunch at Antinori. Inky purple in color. The nose is nice with black cherries and a bit of milk chocolate. On the palate, this is a forward, fruity Merlot but with enough structure to hold up and make it interesting. Some complexity. Nice cherry flavors with some floral and cocoa notes on the palate. The finish works well. I doubt I would guess it to be Italian blind, but knowing that, there is enough acidity to work well with lunch. A delicious wine for sure that will probably get better.

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• 2012 Tenuta Guado al Tasso (Antinori) Bolgheri Superiore 95 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Bolgheri, Bolgheri Superiore

  (10/20/2015)

  Wow, this was rocking. At Antinori with as much as I wanted. Nice lunch, but my notes are hard to read. ;-) This is a 70/20/10 blend of Cab/Merlot/Cab Franc. Inky purple in color. The nose has cassis, sandalwood, plums, coffee and milk chocolate. With air, menthol comes out too. What a great texture. At the same time, there is an elegance here that differentiates it from other blends. Even better than the Tignanello which I usually like better. The finish goes on for a long time. With everything going on, this worked great with our lunch. And, it will probably only get better for a decade at least.

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• 2009 Castello della Sala (Antinori) Umbria Muffato della Sala 91 Points

  Italy, Umbria

  (10/20/2015)

  This is a dessert wine from Umbria. Golden in color with some slight green specks. A really lovely nose of honey and apricots. On the palate, this is sweet but not overtly. Nice slightly viscous texture, but not as thick as I might have thought it would be. Honey and apricots to match on the palate. Enough acidity to work well with cheeses. A nice dessert wine.

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• 2011 Antinori Vin Santo del Chianti Classico Tenute Marchese 86 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Chianti, Vin Santo del Chianti Classico

  (10/20/2015)

  We all found this disappointing and not up to the levels of the other wines served. Iced tea in color. The nose is oxidized with vanilla and port-like alcohol. On the palate, like slightly bitter tea. Its drinkable but not great. Perhaps this was an off bottle, perhaps not. At this point, it was not worth drinking though. There are so few good Vin Santo's.

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Back at the Villa (after a short nap).

• 2014 Fontodi Meriggio Colli della Toscana Centrale IGT 90 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Colli della Toscana Centrale IGT

  (10/20/2015)

  Bought at the winery and consumed a day later back at the Villa with much more time for opening and attention. The nose has a nice gooseberry quality to it along with a streak of mint, and some grassiness. An oily texture that is nice. Tart acidity. On the palate, this is refreshing and has some depth. There is a nice blood orange quality to the flavor especially on the finish. it adds weight with air and warmth. It shows a bit better than at the tasting room, but I would drink these young. It is the freshness that helps it I think.

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• 2012 Fattoria di Fèlsina Berardenga Chianti Classico 91 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Chianti, Chianti Classico DOCG

  (10/20/2015)

  Bought a bottle at the winery and drank it back at the Villa. Purple in color, ruby at the rim. The nose is dusty with cherries, plums and charred tarragon. ripe fruit on the palate. Lots of cherries and black cherries. Medium tannins. Nice acidity. There is some complexity that shows itself with air. A few years will help it, but its delicious now while waiting for its bigger brothers to mature. Excellent QPR!

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• 2013 Conte Ferdinando Guicciardini Castello di Poppiano Tosco Forte Colli della Toscana Centrale IGT 87 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Colli della Toscana Centrale IGT

  (10/20/2015)

  From a winery within walking distance of our Villa in Montespertoli. 100% Sangiovese. Purple in color. The nose has dried cherries, hay and slight cough drops. On the palate, more plums but a bit of cherry. A slight bitterness. A nice drinking wine with a low key dinner at home after a long day.

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Lunch in Sienna.

• 2010 Montevertine Le Pergole Torte Toscana IGT 94 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Toscana IGT

  (10/20/2015)

  At Osteria Le Logge in Sienna. Great food. 125 Euros off the list. This is young, but we had time, and let this air for a while. It did open and by the end of the bottle, was showing very well. I think there is still room to improve by a point or two. Ruby/purple in color. The nose is cherries, raspberries, dark cherries and sandalwood. Great texture. Silky yet powerful. Deep and tightly complex. Long finish. The last glass is the best. Wait ten years. If you go to this restaurant, ask for a tour of the cellars. Across and under the street. Very cool!

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The Museo de Vino in San Gimignano.

• 2012 Tenuta Le Calcinaie Vernaccia di San Gimignano Riserva Vigna ai Sassi 91 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, San Gimignano, Vernaccia di San Gimignano

  (10/20/2015)

  I am a fan of VdSG's but this may be the best one ever tasted. Light golden in color. I am told this saw no oak. The nose has wet stones (think German Riesling), pears, peaches, and also a vanilla streak. With air a persimmon quality comes out. Very nice creamy texture. Where is this body coming from? It is almost fat. Yet, there is good acidity here. Complex and delicious right now. Long finish. I would doubt it ages, but its already three years from vintage. I need to find out more about this producer. I doubt it makes it to the US. Too bad as I think this was under $20.

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• 2013 Fattoria San Donato Vernaccia di San Gimignano Angelica 87 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, San Gimignano, Vernaccia di San Gimignano

  (10/20/2015)

  A much more traditional VdSG. Golden green in color. The nose has minerals and some oak showing. Also some peaches. On the palate, there is a strong backbone of acidity. Tart peaches, if you will. Some vanilla notes. A crisp wine with just a hint of oak showing. Nice finish. A nice wine for around $15.

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• 2006 Az. Agr. Vagnoni Sodi Lunghi Rosso Toscana IGT 86 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Toscana IGT

  (10/20/2015)

  An interesting wine, I believe it is 100% Sangiovese and under $15 on release. The owner of the wine shop had it open at the end of the day and shared a glass. If anything it is a testament that sangiovese, even the less expensive ones can last for a while. This is ruby/brown in color. The nose has dried cherries, crushed leaves and a hint of brown sugar. On the palate, it is a bit more vibrant. Cherries and dried cherries with some layers of forest floor. Good acidity. Nice wine. I would certainly drink it if offered and food would help. Drink up if you have them though.

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Best dinner of the trip (Cum Quibus in San Gimignano)

• 2004 Castello dei Rampolla Sammarco Toscana IGT 97 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Toscana IGT

  (10/20/2015)

  After again whiffing on a couple of 2010's I ordered that were not available (the 09's were), I settled on this off the list at Cum Quibus in San Gimignano. A truly great dining experience with a nice wine list. This was 60 Euros IIRC. We had a slow dinner, so we opted not to use the aerator that was offered. The wine opened up beautifully. I have not liked this wine that much in the past finding it over oaked, but with 11 years from vintage, the oak has integrated, and the wine is seemingly at peak with years left. Mostly Sangiovese with a little international stuff. Purple/ruby in color. The nose is cassis, tobacco, slight licorice and just a hint of cigar box. On the palate, this is soft with layers of fruit and earthiness. Great balance. Each sip requires contemplation and then another sip. A great match with food. It delivered way above expectations in terms of complexity and integration. A great dining experience.

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• 1999 Avignonesi Vin Santo di Montepulciano Occhio di Pernice 98 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Montepulciano, Vin Santo di Montepulciano

  (10/20/2015)

  Wow. Off the list at Cum Quibus in San Gimignano. 29 Euros per glass. Deep ruby/dark brown in color. The nose is incredible. Figs, coffee grounds, leather, spice, dried cherries and dark chocolate. One of those wines I could sniff all night. On the palate, this is like motor oil. Thicker than maple syrup. Delicious. Unctuous. Complex. Sweet but balanced and not cloying. Flavors of espresso, figs, dark chocolate. So smooth. My wife and I used our fingers to wipe clean the glass for the last taste. This is so rich I would not want a second glass. But one was amazing. The finish lasted for hours. A real treat!

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Our luggage finally arrived (sans one bottle and a corkscrew). We celebrated by sharing some of our wine with our hosts.

• 2013 SonkinCellars Persona

  USA, California

  (10/21/2015)

  Opened to celebrate the release of the 2013 vintage while in Tuscany. Pop and pour, this needs plenty of time. A glass left for a day on the counter was even better. This is similar to the 2012 but more concentrated. It needs air or better 5 years in the cellar. That said, our hosts seem to really like it.

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• 2012 SonkinCellars Unmasked

  USA, California, North Coast, Yorkville Highlands

  (10/21/2015)

  We actually brought two bottles of this. When switching planes in Paris on Air France, the entire baggage system was down. Our luggage did not arrive for 4 days. When it did, one bottle was missing along with my Trader Joe's cork screw. Bastards! These were to be gifts for our hosts and one winery owner. Pop and pour, the 2012's are very accessible. While I think this will improve over the next 4 to 10 years, it is drinking well today according to our hosts.

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A visit to Poggio Antico in Brunello. We also had lunch at their restaurant.

• 2013 Poggio Antico Rosso di Montalcino 89 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Montalcino, Rosso di Montalcino

  (10/20/2015)

  Ruby in color. The nose has cherries. Fresh. Not deep. On the palate. Light tannins. This is a lighter bodied, fresh wine. Cherries with a slight anise quality. This makes easy early drinking.

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• 2008 Poggio Antico Brunello di Montalcino 87 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino

  (10/20/2015)

  This was a solid wine, but a bit disappointing for a Brunello to me. Ruby in color. The nose is light with some cherries and whiffs of tobacco. On the palate, sour cherries. Light tannins. This isn't going to get better. Drink up.

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• 2008 Poggio Antico Brunello di Montalcino Altero 89 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino

  (10/20/2015)

  Certainly a step up from the traditional BdM but again, a much lighter version than other vintages. Cherries and vanilla on the nose. Maybe a bit of spice. On the palate, medium bodied. Cherries and sour cherries. Some vanilla. It does have a long finish. I would drink these in the next few years. Not going to get better IMO.

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• 2006 Poggio Antico Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 91 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino

  (10/20/2015)

  A much better showing than the 08's. I mentioned to my friends that I usually prefer the regular to the riservas as I don't think the extra ageing adds good stuff to the wine. Our hostess over heard that and stated "you are not wrong, from a particular point of view, but that point of view is wrong". Great quote. Her point was that the Riservas need to age even more. Oh well. In any event, this wine was quite good at 9 years from vintage. Ruby/purple in color. The nose has cherries, cedar and vanilla. Maybe a bit of forest funk too. On the palate, this has black cherries and vanilla. Oak tannins. Perhaps it still needs more time to get even better. I liked it, but I think the oak was bit too pervasive. In any event, I ended up buying the range of the 07 BdM's including the Riservas so over time, perhaps I can find out if my point of view was wrong. ;-)

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• 2006 Poggio Antico Madre Toscana IGT 91 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Toscana IGT

  (10/20/2015)

  A 50/50 Super Tuscan blend of Cab and Sangiovese. 18 months in new French oak. Cherries and cassis along with some bell pepper on the nose. This has medium tannins still. The palate has a good amount of cherries and cassis. Some toasted oak. It has a nice complexity. I liked this wine and at around $40, I think it is priced reasonably.

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• 2012 Poggio Antico Lemartine Toscana IGT 90 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Toscana IGT

  (10/20/2015)

  This is a 50/25/25 blend of Sangiovese/Cabernet/Petite Verdot. It spends 8 months in new french oak. I was told this was under $30, but a quick look on the web shows it closer to $45. It is a modern, delicious wine. Nice black raspberry fruit with some cherries. Medium tannins. More than just a simple drinker, there is some underlying depth here. Perhaps a year or two more will improve the wine by a point or two.

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• 2012 Tenuta Guado al Tasso (Antinori) Bolgheri Il Bruciato 89 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Bolgheri

  (10/20/2015)

  After yet another restaurant that did not have the 2010 I ordered on the menu (a d'Allessandro Syrah), we went with this. The blend on this is 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 15% Syrah. Purple/ruby in color. The nose has a yeasty scent to it. Not bad, but toast along with black raspberries, a bit jammy. There is also an odd menthol/clove cigarette note (reminds me of high school). On the palate, tart black raspberry pie filling. This is a fruit forward, unabashed wine that makes for tasty drinking if not a complex wine. Slight heat on the finish, I did not see the alc levels. Blind, i would have guessed Paso Robles or something like that I think. It is also reasonably priced. Around 35 Euros at the Poggio Antico restaurant.

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A visit to Riccardo Campinotti at La Ragnaie. It was great to meet someone I have "talked" with via the Internet. Very impressive facility.

• 2012 Le Ragnaie Brunello di Montalcino Ragnaie V.V. 92 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino

  (10/20/2015)

  This is from a barrel sample. Ruby/ clear and bright. The nose is very nice with cherries and sour cherries. Still a hint of yeast. It has a wonderful creamy texture. Silky cherries on the palate. It seems 2012 is good not great based on winemakers comments, but more often than not, I was impressed. Certainly over the 08, 09 and 11's that were prevalent in tasting rooms and menus. This was no exception. Lots of good stuff here. Of course, i have sero experience evaluating BdM in barrel, but I liked this.

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• 2013 Le Ragnaie Brunello di Montalcino Ragnaie V.V. 90 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino

  (10/20/2015)

  This is good but at this point, it seems like it will be more of a short term BdM. The nose has yeast, cherries and a bit of pepper. There also seems to be a bit of reduction though I would assume that blows off. On the palate, this is already showing a soft, easy drinking cherry fruit with moderate depth quality. Seems more advanced than the 12 at this point. Interesting.

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• 2014 Le Ragnaie Brunello di Montalcino Ragnaie V.V.

  Italy, Tuscany, Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino

  (10/20/2015)

  No point rating this. Riccardo was of the mindset that this would go into the Rosso as it was not now up to his standards. 2014 was a difficult vintage in Tuscany. Almost no one had olive oil and very little wines was being talked about. Lots of light cherries here. I liked it and would score it 88 points but I get that it might not be up to standards.

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• 2014 Le Ragnaie Rosato Toscana IGT 88 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Toscana IGT

  (10/20/2015)

  I am not sure if this gets released or is just used for their Agrismo Turismo (where I am sure it would be popular). In an effort to make some concentration to the 2014 wine, this was bled off and made into a rose. I liked it. Pale ruby in color. This is refreshing with tart cherries on the nose and palate. It would be great with cheeses and salty food outside on their patio. Not profound but very few rose's are. Still it's a great way to take advantage of the cards you are dealt!

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• 2013 Le Ragnaie Chianti Colli Senesi 89 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Chianti, Chianti Colli Senesi

  (10/20/2015)

  They have vines that are too high in altitude (600 meters) to qualify for Brunello. So, instead they use them to make the Chianti. I was surprised to hear this as high altitude is usually a good thing. Riccardo said the rules were old and since they could not, they don't age this in new oak, just the larger old slovonian oak barrels and then release quickly. Curiously, he also stated he thought they were his best vines. I get the issue, but I would love for him to say "screw it" and make a super Tuscan giving these vines the treatment they deserve. Of course, I don't have to try to sell it either. It would be a gamble. That said, this certainly seemed better than the 2013 BdM in barrel. Cherries, dust, slight reduction again on the nose. There is depth and freshness here though that is charming. Good acidity. Light tannins. Nice finish. We bought a couple of bottles for drinking over the next few days (notes to follow).

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• 2012 Le Ragnaie Rosso di Montalcino 91 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Montalcino, Rosso di Montalcino

  (10/20/2015)

  Dusty nose with slight cherries and a bit of herbal notes. On the palate there is a nice depth here not found in many RdM. Sweet cherry fruit with some earthy layering. Light tannins. Great balance and freshness. Nice finish. Drinking well now but no hurry.

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• 2009 Le Ragnaie Brunello di Montalcino 90 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino

  (10/20/2015)

  Perhaps a step behind the 2012 Rosso, just another indication about the vintages I think. Ruby turning brown at the rim. The nose has dried and fresh cherries with some dusty tea leaves. Medium tannins. It is very smooth to drink. Not a lot of complexity. It has a cherry juice quality to it. This is good but lacks that extra something that makes BdM such a great wine. Maybe it gets a bit better with time. I hope so as I bought a bottle but it is really very good right now and fairly priced.

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• 2011 Le Ragnaie Brunello di Montalcino

  Italy, Tuscany, Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino

  (10/20/2015)

  This will be released in a few weeks. Deeper ruby than the 2009. The nose has cherries, slight floral notes and a bit of tarragon. On the palate, there is a sweet cherry fruit. I asked and was told there was no residual sugar, just ripe fruit. It is very tight right now, but there seems to be a nice complexity and depth to it.

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• 2011 Le Ragnaie Brunello di Montalcino Ragnaie V.V. 93 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino

  (10/20/2015)

  This is not yet released. It was cool to try this after barrel samples of 12, 13, and 14. I wish there was a 2010, but that was sold out. Ruby/purple in color. A much deeper nose. Country air, sour cherries, cherries, tea, sage and mint. On the palate, the fruit is intense and ripe. Tight layering. Lots of cherries but also a lot of complexity. Nice finish. This will probably get a point or two better but it needs 10 years.

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• 2011 Le Ragnaie Brunello di Montalcino Fornace 94 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino

  (10/20/2015)

  Wow. This is really good. Not yet released. Ruby in color, browning t the rim. This is more sexy than the other BdM's but still on the elegant side. Just a warmer quality. The nose has cherries, sage, iron and charred wood. On the palate, this has silky tannins. Juicy acidity. Great balance. Approachable now, but should improve but a point or two. Wish I could have bought some now, but a real treat to taste.

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Back to the Villa. Goodbye dinner for Lori.

• NV Marchese Antinori Franciacorta Tenuta Montenisa Cuvée Spéciale 89 Points

  Italy, Lombardia, Franciacorta DOCG

  (10/20/2015)

  Bought in the Antinori tasting room for 22 Euros. Light golden in color. The nose has some ginger and a bit of minerality. Maybe some limes. On the palate, this is good, but not really better than a good Prosecco or Cava. I know they make higher end wines as well. An enjoyable wine but not worth the money. I think this is a new project so given Antonori's track record, check back in ten years. Of course, then i won't be able to afford it.

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• 2013 Castello della Sala (Antinori) Umbria Cervaro della Sala 90 Points

  Italy, Umbria

  (10/20/2015)

  Bought in the tasting room by a friend, it was nice to get a chance to try this again with more time. Light golden green in color. The nose has some tropical fruit, pineapple and also some vanilla and hints of butterscotch. On the palate, there is a nice minerality. Also a lot of pineapple and oak. It improves with air and warmth. There is good acidity here. Not for the shy of oak though.

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• 2013 Le Ragnaie Chianti Colli Senesi 89 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Chianti, Chianti Colli Senesi

  (10/20/2015)

  Bought by a friend earlier in the day, it was nice to get another crack at this with some time. It is a really interesting wine. High altitude vines. Purple/ruby in color. The nose has plums, cherries and dark cherries. An earthy component as well. On the palate, this is smooth and easy but there is an intensity to the fruit. This may improve a bit to a 90 point score. As i said in another note, I would love to taste these grapes as an IGT made with high end winemaking (french oak, low yields, long ageing).

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• 2009 Podere Le Ripi Rosso di Montalcino Amore e Magia 89 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Montalcino, Rosso di Montalcino

  (10/20/2015)

  This was a gift from Cum Quibus restaurant in San Gimignano when they found out it was our anniversary. Very nice gesture. Purple/ruby in color. The nose is earthy with cherries. A damp earthiness comes out with air. On the palate, dark cherries, iodine and iron notes. Very tasty and interesting. Not sure on pricing but there is a price I would pay. maybe $25? In any event, the wine was enjoyed and the gift appreciated.

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• 2011 Lamberti Amarone della Valpolicella 90 Points

  Italy, Veneto, Valpolicella, Amarone della Valpolicella

  (10/20/2015)

  I may have over rated this but after a ton of Tuscan wine, this was a nice change of pace. Purple in color. Slight chocolate on the nose. Also some raspberries. Very smooth and balanced. Nothing rasiny here, but this also had that Amarone quality and not just a Valpolicella. More of a texture than anything else. I would guess this sells for around $30.

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At Pitti Gola e Cantina (recommended wine bar) at the Piazza de Pitti in Florence.

• 1974 Podere Campacci Chianti Classico

  Italy, Tuscany, Chianti, Chianti Classico DOCG

  (10/20/2015)

  But oh so cool. Served by the glass at Pitti Gola wine bar in Firenze, Italy. 10 Euros a glass. A really cool experience. How do you rate such a wine. 86 maybe on quality. 94 for the experience. Brown/ruby in color. The nose is dusty with burnt sugar and dried cherries. On the palate, slight cherries, more dried cherries and a bit of burnt sugar. Yet, quite smooth. Not particularly complex but certainly still alive and worth drinking. Good balance.

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• 1980 Fattoria Selvapiana Chianti Rùfina Riserva 90 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Chianti, Chianti Rùfina

  (10/20/2015)

  Served at Pitti Gola in Firenze, Tuscany. By the glass for 10 Euros. Faded ruby with orange at the rim. The nose is dusty cherries and plums. Also some leather. On the palate, this is still vibrant. A nice complexity. Plums. Good acidity. No tannins. Really cool experience.

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• 2007 Adanti Montefalco Sagrantino Arquata 91 Points

  Italy, Umbria, Montefalco, Montefalco Sagrantino

  (10/21/2015)

  Drank this at IO Osteria in Firenze. This is still young but starting top open. It took three tries to find a bottle off the list that was in stock. As we were short on time and needed to catch a train, this did not get the air it deserved. Still it is very nice. Ruby purple. The nose has dark cherries and sandalwood. Still tannins. Good fruit. Nice acidity. IO seems to have a nice, well priced wine list. Just another place that did not have the 2010's in stock and had not updated its list.

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Back at the Villa

• 2009 Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino 90 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino

  (10/20/2015)

  I like Banfi. I think they make really nice wines and get dissed because they are such a giant of a winery. I am not a fan of the 2009 vintage though. This was better than most. Ruby in color. The nose has plums and cherries with slight tarragon. On the palate, this is easy drinking, accessible, reasonably ripe. A bit of complexity. Mild tannins. I would drink this sooner than later, but that's fine. Of course, with the 09's, for me, it is going to be about price.

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• 2008 Lombardi Brunello di Montalcino 89 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino

  (10/20/2015)

  Ruby in color. The nose is nice with cherries, tea and leather. Deep but not complex. Light tannins. Black cherry fruit on the palate. This wine is easy to drink. Ready to go. Probably won't get better.

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• 2013 Le Ragnaie Chianti Colli Senesi 90 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Chianti, Chianti Colli Senesi

  (10/21/2015)

  So this was my third time trying this on this vacation. This bottle has the advantage of an hour or more of air, before we started to drink it. It seemed to have just a little more going on than the others. Purple/ruby in color. The nose has black cherries, leather and a sage like note. Really nice texture. smooth, slick. Lots of black cherry fruit. There is a nice ripeness here. Slight heat on the finish. There really is a great intensity to the fruit here.

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• 2009 Castiglion del Bosco Brunello di Montalcino Podere Gauggiole 87 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino

  (10/21/2015)

  Light ruby in color. Light cherries on the nose. Celery and cherries on the palate. A nice quaff. I might be being generous if I factored in pricing.

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One last evening at the Villa. First outside with just Jane and I, and then inside with Brad and Troy.

• 2011 Pietrafitta Vernaccia di San Gimignano La Costa - Riserva 90 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, San Gimignano, Vernaccia di San Gimignano

  (10/21/2015)

  OK, I may have over rated this, but sitting on our patio, watching the sun set over the Tuscan hills, this was a truly great wine experience. Light green/gold in color. The nose has minerals and a tart peach quality. On the palate, this is quite smooth. Round edges. Lots of minerality and some lemon qualities. Good finish. With some cheeses and that sunset - perfect!

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• 2013 SonkinCellars Unmasked

  USA, California, North Coast, Yorkville Highlands

  (10/21/2015)

  Also opened in Tuscany to celebrate the release of the 2013 vintage. This bottle was opened a day in advance and allowed to breathe. The air really helps. It still needs time though. This is the most backward wine we have made. I believe the stuffing is here, but if you are opening, right now I recommend 48 to 72 hours of air in advance.

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• 2011 Belpoggio Brunello di Montalcino 89 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino

  (10/21/2015)

  Ruby/purple in color. The nose is nice with black cherries and some dust. On the palate, this is easy drinking. Ripe dark cherry fruit. Nice finish. A nice wine for sure if not great.

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• 2010 Antinori Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Badia a Passignano 89 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Chianti, Chianti Classico DOCG

  (10/21/2015)

  Bought at the winery and consumed back at the Villa. This is pretty much the same. Maybe it is shut down now, but for a Gran Selezione, I would expect more. The nose has cherries and spice. Nice texture. Good acidity. On the palate, cherries, slight forest floor and a bit of spice. Nice acidity. A really good wine but short of outstanding. Maybe a few years improves this.

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• 2002 Castello di Cacchiano Vin Santo del Chianti Classico 89 Points

  Italy, Tuscany, Chianti, Vin Santo del Chianti Classico

  (10/21/2015)

  One of the few not great, not terrible Vin Santo's that I have had. Coffee in color. The nose has a lot of alcohol but also some maple. Much better on the palate. Smooth with maple notes. Viscous. Slightly sweet. Nice finish. Very enjoyable.

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• 2014 Cavalchina Müller-Thurgau Le Pergole del Sole Monte Veneto IGT 90 Points

  Italy, Veneto, Veneto IGT

  (10/21/2015)

  An odd end to a week filled with mostly Tuscan wines. Perhaps that is why it tasted so refreshing. I doubt this makes old bones, but is really nice right now. Light golden in color. The nose has cinnamon rolls. Odd, but there it is. On the palate, much different. Crisp. Tart melon. Long finish. A nice ending.

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Much thanks to Brad P. for the invite!