by Ray Johnson | Jan 20, 2009 | Chianti Classico, Italy, Sangiovese, Tuscany
Castellare, Chianti Classico 2005 This estate has traditionally shown an Old World expression in their wines from Tuscany. There is a combination of cherry fruit and earthiness in the nose. The mouth showcases lean and tart cherry flavors – right on target. The...
by Ray Johnson | Dec 1, 2008 | Collio, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy, Pinot Gris and Grigio
Vigneti Fantinel, Collio, Vigneti Sant’Helena, Pinot Grigio 2006 The nose features brown spices and nuttiness while a golden color has already developed. In the mouth the wine is maturing, with doughy flavors, toastiness and a roundness. The acidity is on the...
by Ray Johnson | Nov 20, 2008 | Italy, Moscato d'Asti, Muscat, Piemonte, Sparkling sweet
La Spinetta, Moscato d’Asti DOCG, Bricco Quaglia 2007 This is a personal favorite from the legend. I was blessed to meet Rivetti before the skyrocket to fame. This wine remains an affordable way to taste some of this estate’s expertise. The White Muscat is...
by Ray Johnson | Oct 23, 2008 | Italy, Primitivo, Puglia
Botromagno, Puglia IGT, Primitivo 2006 The nose shows drying and oxidized fruit while the mouth is extremely tannic. The astringency dominates; it was a mistake to take a chance on this wine. Bottled in Gravina 13.5% $14.99 at Traverso’s
by Ray Johnson | Oct 23, 2008 | Italy, Tuscany, Vernaccia
Casa Alle Vacche, Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG, I Macchioni, 2007 There is a New World ripe expression of fruit in the nose, along with perfume, green herbs and some minerality. In the mouth there is ample acidity with some thick, fleshy fruit as well to fill it...
by Ray Johnson | Oct 21, 2008 | Chianti Classico, Italy, Langhe, Nebbiolo, Piemonte, Sangiovese, Tuscany
Vietti, Langhe DOC, Nebbiolo, Perbacco 2005 Spot on with black licorice and a wallop of tannin. Estate Bottled in Castiglione Falletto 13.5% $26.99 at Traverso’s Vietti Badia a Coltibuono, Chianti Classico DOCG 2005 There is a pleasant combo of earth, cherries...
