As one of the oldest beverages known on earth, the popularity of wine is insurmountable with some 4.3 billion bottles being enjoyed annually by drinkers in the U.S. alone (according to alcohol.org). With the variety of grapes and terrain and with each harvest offering up a difference in flavour, the diversity of the drink is possibly what makes it so popular. Add to that the ability to enjoy with or without food, the range of prices you can get a bottle for and the stories they tell about their vineyard, and you can see why this beverage is enjoyed by so many.
Here, we are going to focus on Tuscany; a notable region that is referred to by many as home to some of the most sought-after wines. Located in the heart of Italy, Tuscany is home to vineyards that have been passed on from generation to generation and tend to be produced by the most forward-thinking winemakers out there. ‘Super Tuscan’ is a common term used in this region and refers to wine produced in Tuscany that utilises non-traditional grape varieties and doesn’t abide by the traditional Tuscan winemaking process. Consequently, this style of wine isn’t classified as a DOCG- Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita. Wines that were made outside DOCG regulations were considered of high quality and commanded high prices.
Below, we highlight some delightful Tuscan wines that we think should be included in your wine cellar.
Sassicaia
Sassicaia is undoubtedly one of the finest and most popular wines in the world. It’s a red wine originally produced by Mario Incisa Della Rocchetta in 1968. The word Sassicaia can be translated as ‘a place of many stones’ inspired by the rocky terrain on which the vineyards of these wines are planted. Sassicaia wine is a blend of predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc which gives this wine an elegant taste with a refined texture. The wine has a typical red colour and goes perfectly with rich meaty dishes, different kinds of pasta and creamy sauces.
Carmignano
Named after the town of Carmignano, this is one of the lesser known of DOCG wines. Carmignano wine has been known since Roman times and was well known in the Medici court during the Renaissance. These wines are a blend of Sangiovese, Canaiolo Nero, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc which gives the wine a lively and intense ruby red colour. Carmignano wines are sumptuous, and the taste is dry, balanced and velvety, pairing well with rich Tuscan cuisines.
Tignanello
Tignanello is one of the most desirable wines in Italy and is a blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet grape varieties. It is a red wine that hails from the Tuscany region made by the prestigious Italian winery Marchesi Antinori. This wine is flavourful with traces of red fruit, cherry, spice, tobacco, herbs and often goes well with spicy meats and different kinds of pasta.
Uccelliera Rapace Toscana
Uccelliera Rapace Toscana is a complex, rich and powerful wine that is made of a blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. This is a full-body, soft and silky wine with a long finish that completes a balance between fruit, oak, acidity, and tannins. Uccelliera Rapace Toscana pairs well with white meats, cheeses and other savoury sauces.
Castello di Ama L’Apparita
Castello di Ama L’Apparita is an iconic wine that was harvested in 1985 and is 100% merlot. This wine is extremely stylish, velvety, mouth-filling and a true symbol of vintage. The taste is fresh, soft, yet intense with faint tannins. Castello di Ama L’Apparita wine goes perfectly with red meats especially roasted and rich in spices.
