Volpaia is the proud author of one of Chianti Classico’s most enjoyable dessert wines. This luscious Vin Santo (a blend of Trebbiano and Malvasia aged in small barrels called caratelli) is velvety soft and decadent with lingering tones of orange zest, resin, dried ginger, candied fruit and a tiny hint of musk.
— M.L.
(12/15/2011)
The 2004 vintage of Balifico is a very well integrated and harmonious wine with one part fresh cherry fruit, one part oak-related spice and one part aged elegance. It ends with smooth, soft tannins and a blast of more berry fruit on the close.
— M.L.
(3/1/2010)
Gorgeous, soft and rich with velvety firm tannins, Balifico would pair with spicy marinated pork or slow cooked-beef. The plushness is what sets this wine apart as do its fine aromas of blackberry, leather and black cherry.
— M.L.
(10/1/2011)
Balifico stands apart thanks to its dark, rich appearance and generous aromas. The blend is Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon, and together these grapes offer notes of cherry and cassis, plus touches of dried rosemary and toasted spice. In contrast to the boldness of the bouquet, the palate is fine, polished and long-lasting.
— M.L.
(4/1/2013)
Inky color and explosive cherry fruit. Chocolate, spice and a cool element on the nose and palate. A large-scaled wine with a big mouthfeel, yet it’s supple, even lush, despite its youth. Approachable now, but will be much better in 2 to 3 years. A 90% Sangiovese, 5% Mammolo wine.
— W.E.
(2/1/2000)
Round and ripe, with woody hints, a note of bramble patch and plenty of saturated red fruit. Flavors of plum, berry, pepper and espresso drive the palate, followed by light oak and butter on the finish. Well structured and well made, it’s another fine super Tuscan from the top-shelf 1999 vintage.
— M.S.
(11/15/2003)
Spicy and bold at first, and then it evolves to display earth, trail dust and flower-petal aromas. Juicy in the mouth due to bright acids that prop up healthy fruit. The tannins are mammoth, but with a fine steak or breast of duck, they’ll sing. Quite a nice surprise from a property in the midst of a renaissance.
— M.S.
(11/15/2003)
Packaged in a beautiful bottle with string and seal, Il Puro Casanova is 100% Sangiovese with intense aromas of berry fruit, moist earth, leather and tobacco. You’ll enjoy the natural brightness and fullness it offers on the close.
— M.L.
(4/1/2011)