If you do, this article will likely offer no surprise. If you don't, then read on - but only long enough to delay your search for this wine.
Solaia is 80% Cabernet and 20% Sangiovese. It's arguably one of the finest Tuscan wines produced. It routinely receives high scores from critics and it's pedigree and quality secures a three digit price. Valdisanti is essentially the same blend as Solaia. It is also grown in the center of Tuscany, in the Chianti Classico zone of Castelnuovo Berardenga. It also receives high scores from critics and it's of very high quality. The kicker is that Valdisanti costs about $40.
The 2008 Tolaini Valdisanti is a blend of 75% Cabernet, 5% Cabernet Franc, and 20% Sangiovese sourced from two west and southwest facing vineyards that sit about 1,300 feet above sea level near the town of Castelnuovo Berardenga. The wine ages 18 months in French barrique before being released. It is a classic marriage of Cabernet and Sangiovese and it's Tuscan roots are unmistakable.
In the glass, the wine is a dark violet color with pretty ruby reflections. The color seems to hint at a greater percentage of Sangiovese. Initially the aroma of the wine was a bit muted, therefore, I think this young red would benefit from some decanting. However, after being opened for about 30 minutes, classic aromas of Cabernet began appearing: black fruits, minerals, slight herb notes and a pretty floral component. In the mouth the wine is refined and elegant. Rich, but not overdone, oak treatment frames the black fruit flavors of the Cabernet, but there is mushroom, leather and spice too. The acidity is balanced well and the tannins, while somewhat chewy are ripened fully and well integrated. This is delicious and almost regal. It can easily cellar 7-10 years, and I think it will be even better with some time in bottle. Try in 2017. Start the search. 93 points, about $40. Disclosure: This was a distributor provided sample.
 |
| 2008 Tolaini Valdisanti - Delicious Super Tuscan |
No comments:
Post a Comment