March 15, 2025 LCBO VINTAGES Release Wine Picks: Sustainable Italian Wines

Here are my top wine picks from the March 15, 2025 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection, which features Sustainable Italian Wines as the main theme of the release, while the mini-theme looks at Stellar Stellenbosch. The release as a whole is very good with ninety-four products on offer at various price points, with all but ten coming in at $40 or less. Also included in this release are nearly a dozen Online & Flagship Exclusives (OFE) wines. All the wines should be available for purchase by Saturday, if not already on shelves (and online) today.

We'll begin with the feature story of the release - Sustainable Italian Wines - where a dozen wines are included as part of the theme and five are among my top wine picks. The two sustainably crafted white wines are a Verdicchio from Marche, and a Grillo from Sicily. The mono-varietal sustainable red wines are the Nero d'Avola from Sicily, and the Chianti Classico, which is made with 100% Sangiovese. The Rosso di Montepulciano from Tuscany is a blend of 80% Sangiovese and 20% Merlot.

The "mini-theme" is a very, very brief look at wines from Stellenbosch, South Africa. There are only(!) three wines included in the thematic, and my only pick from this group is the Syrah. Why limit the mini-theme to a very slim count of just three wines? I would recommend that mini-thematics should include anywhere from 6 to 8 wines.

Among my top red wine recommendations from the main release, we'll begin with the blends from Iberia, with the Bierzo from Spain consisting of 85% Mencía, 10% white grapes, and 5% other red varieties, while the Alentejano from Portugal is crafted with Trincadeira, Aragonez, Touriga Nacional, and Syrah. The only other red blend is from Roussillon, and it is composed of Grenache, Carignan, and Syrah. Among the single varietal wines, there is an excellent Brunello di Montalcino that is crafted with Sangiovese, while the wine from Castilla y León is 100% Tempranillo. The lovely wine from Greece is Xinomavro, and the Chilean red is Carmenère. On the local front, there are a couple of fine Pinot Noirs from the Bench in the Niagara Escarpment, as well as a Gamay from the Niagara Peninsula.

All of my white wine picks from the rest of the release are mono-varietal wines, with a trio of Chardonnays leading the pack. There are two Chardonnays from Niagara, as well as one from South Africa. For other dry whites, you can go slightly off the beaten path with a fine Ribolla Gialla from Friuli, or the elevated Alvarinho from Vinho Verde. There's also a fine Sauvignon Blanc from Niagara, along with a dry Pinot Gris from New Zealand. If you want a wine with a little sweetness, check out the lovely Niagara Riesling.

Lastly, there is a lovely, fortified wine from Portugal that is very sweet, but balanced, and crafted using the Setubal Moscatel variety, which is also known as Alexandria.

Enjoy my top wine recommendations from this release! Cincin!

Red Wine:

• FLOR DE MAIO MAYFLOWER 2021 - Vegan, Vinho Regional Alentejano, Portugal (#427195) (XD) - $15.95  89 pts  wine review
• GORGHI TONDI COSTE A PREOLA NERO D'AVOLA 2022 - DOC Sicilia, Italy (#39219) (XD) - $17.95  90 pts  wine review
• FEATHERSTONE GAMAY NOIR 2021 - Vegan, VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#39275) (XD) - $18.95  89 pts  wine review
• GLENELLY GLASS COLLECTION SYRAH 2021 - WO Stellenbosch, South Africa (#493841) (XD) - $19.95
• CHÂTEAU SAINT-ROCH CHIMÈRES GRENACHE / CARIGNAN / SYRAH CÔTES DU ROUSSILLON-VILLAGES 2022 - AP, Midi, France (#119354) (XD) - $19.95
• SAN PEDRO 1865 SELECTED VINEYARDS CARMENÈRE 2022 - Las Lagunas, DO Valle de Colchagua, Chile (#249201) (XD) - $20.95  90 pts  wine review
• BOUTARI NAOUSSA XINOMAVRO 2021 - PDO Naoussa, Macedonia, Greece (#23218) (XD) - $20.95  90 pts  wine review

 

• ALEJANDRO FERNÁNDEZ DEHESA LA GRANJA 2018 - Vino de la Tierra de Castilla y León, Spain (#192476) (XD) - $22.95  91+ pts  wine review
• POLIZIANO ROSSO DI MONTEPULCIANO 2022 - DOC, Tuscany, Italy (#22795) (XD) - $24.95
• RICASOLI BROLIO BETTINO CHIANTI CLASSICO 2021 - Sustainable, DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#630939) (XD) - $27.95
• DESCENDIENTES DE J. PALACIOS PÉTALOS 2022 - DO Bierzo, Spain (#446484) (XD) - $29.95
• THIRTY BENCH SMALL LOT PINOT NOIR 2021 - Sustainable, VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#44041) (XD) - $40.00  92 pts  wine review
• BACHELDER WISMER-PARKE SINGLE VINEYARD PINOT NOIR 2022 - VQA Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#520379) (XD) - $54.95  OFE
• IL POGGIONE BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2019 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#551176) (XD) - $76.95  93 pts  wine review

White Wine:

• CASAL DI SERRA VERDICCHIO DEI CASTELLI DI JESI CLASSICO SUPERIORE 2023 - Sustainable, DOC, Marche, Italy (#268169) (XD) - $18.95  88+ pts  wine review
• TE PA PA ROAD MARLBOROUGH PINOT GRIS 2024 - Sustainable, Vegan, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand (#41804) (XD) - $18.95
• PLANETA LA SEGRETA GRILLO 2023 - Sustainable, DOC Sicilia, Italy (#39442) (XD) - $19.95  90+ pts  wine review
• TRIUS DISTINCTION SAUVIGNON BLANC 2022 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#19379) (XD) - $19.95
• AGANIS DI FLABE RIBOLLA GIALLA 2023 - DOC Colli Orientali del Friuli, Italy (#39744) (XD) - $22.95  90+ pts  wine review
• AVELEDA SOLOS DE GRANITO ALVARINHO 2022 - Vegan, DOC Vinho Verde, Portugal (#17514) (XD) - $24.95  91 pts  wine review
• HIDDEN BENCH ESTATE RIESLING 2020 - VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#183491) (D) - $24.95
• LE CLOS JORDANNE JORDAN VILLAGE CHARDONNAY 2021 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#20455) (XD) - $30.00  90+ pts  wine review
• BACHELDER LES VILLAGES BENCH CHARDONNAY 2022 - VQA Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#16059) (XD) - $34.95  OFE  91+ pts  wine review
• TESSELAARSDAL CHARDONNAY 2023 - Vegan, WO Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge, South Africa (#32933) (XD) - $49.95  OFE

Fortified Wine:

• VENÂNCIO COSTA LIMA MOSCATEL DE SETÚBAL 2021 - DOC, Portugal (#42991) (S) - $18.95  91 pts  wine review

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San Felice Il Grigio Riserva Chianti Classico 2021 (Tuscany) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely Riserva Chianti Classico from Tuscany. A relatively frequent visitor to Ontario, this latest vintage arrived at the LCBO on Saturday as part of the February 15 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by San Felice, an estate whose origins date back to Etruscan times, but whose modern winemaking activities go back to the 1960s after it was acquired and developed into the iconic winery (and resort) it is today. Findings unearthed on the estate show that the Etruscans shaped the territorial landscape of the Chianti landscape, including the introduction of the cultivation of vines. The Borgo of San Felice, as it's known today, was established in the Middle Ages, with its first mention dating back to the year 714, when it was originally known as San Felice in Avana.

Today, San Felice is an emblem of authentic Tuscany with vineyards in the region's three-most prestigious winemaking territories - 150 hectares in Chianti Classico, 23 hectares in Montalcino, and 15 hectares in Bolgheri, and producing wine from only estate-owned grapes.

San Felice Estate and its historic Borgo Cellars are situated in Castelnuovo Berardenga, in the south of Chianti Classico, just minutes north of Siena. With deep respect for its historic estate, the philosophy at San Felice starts with sustainability. The estate covers 150 hectares at approximately 400 metres above sea level, and features an ideal combination of soil and microclimate to produce highly acclaimed wines and oils. The winemaker at San Felice, Leonardo Bellaccini, has pioneered many unique practices at the estate, including identifying the distinctive characteristics in each of San Felice's undulating slopes and treating each vine within the vineyard individually. Leonardo has also identified five macro-areas, allowing San Felice to plant the appropriate grape varieties in a specific geography and soil type, which allows the grapes to thrive and express the terroir. The 18th century cellar of San Felice is carved out of rugged limestone and is where tradition is combined with advanced technology. The cellar contains rows of oak barrels, as well as halls of steel tanks, where wines undergo temperature-controlled fermentation and ageing.

This red wine is crafted with 100% Sangiovese that was grown at the San Felice Estate in Castelnuovo Berardenga, Siena, in the south of Chianti Classico. The vines were trained using the spur-pruned cordon system and grown on medium-textured, predominantly calcareous marl consisting of Alberese and Galestro limestones, with abundant gravel-pebble mixture. After harvesting the grapes in the second week of September and the first week of October, they were vinified by fermentation on the skins at 28–30° C for 18–20 days, followed by malolactic fermentation in steel. It was matured in oak for 24 months, with 80% of the wine being aged in 60/90 hl Slavonian oak casks, and the remaining 20% aged in 225 L French barriques, followed by further ageing in bottle for approximately 6 months.

It is difficult to generalize the vintage growing conditions in Chianti Classico because each UGA tends to have its own geographical uniqueness. Overall, however, the 2021 vintage featured a hot summer with a later harvest that yielded vibrant and focused red grapes with ripe tannins, albeit with slightly reduced yields at lower elevations. At the estate in Castelnuovo Berardenga, the 2021 growing season had a regular seasonal pattern with spring rains favouring vegetative growth and ensuring water reserves for the summer. While bud growth was slightly delayed due to cooler temperatures after the beginning of April, there was no negative impact on plant health. The summer was dry, with moderate temperatures and no excessive heatwaves, and also featured occasional sporadic rains. Plant stress was prevented because of water reserves that accumulated during spring. From late-August, nighttime temperatures dropped significantly and helped aid ripening. From an excellent vintage that produced healthy and high-quality grapes, let's see how this 2021 Riserva Chianti Classico from Tuscany is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

SAN FELICE IL GRIGIO RISERVA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2021 - Sustainable, DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#716266) (XD) - $29.95
This Sangiovese has a medium+ to medium-high intensity nose with a slightly reductive character that yields to a lovely, complex mix of dark red cherry, floral, clove, and sweet wood spice aromas in a slightly dried cherry/floral profile. On the dry, medium+ to medium-full bodied palate it has lovely dark red cherry, wood spice, cocoa, clove, cinnamon, and sweet spice flavours nuanced with dried cherry, floral, and orange peel notes. It has crisp, juicy acidity, along with creamy, well-structured, and slightly youthful tannins. Savoury spice, cocoa, and earthy notes with touches of dried herb notes lingering on the long, crisp, and juicy finish. Decant and enjoy this recommended buy, or hold at least 5+ years for a more mature expression. Score: 91 pts

While their Chianti Classico Annata is readily available at the LCBO, other wines by San Felice can be ordered through their Agent - Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

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Vallepicciola Chianti Classico 2021 (Tuscany) - Wine Review

On Christmas Eve, tonight's red wine review is an excellent Sangiovese from the Chianti Classico wine region that is a brand-new arrival at the LCBO and landed on shelves (and online) as part of the recent December 14th LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Vallepicciola, a family-run winery that was born from the love of Chianti Classico and brought to life in the late 1990s after the Bolfo family restored the ruins of an old monastery located in the picturesque countryside of the village of Pievasciata. This village is located within the municipality of Castelnuovo Berardenga, at the southern end of Chianti Classico, in the province of Siena. The Bolfo family transformed this monastery and its vineyards with love and care to give rise to the 5-star Hotel Le Fontanelle.

Today, Vallepicciola is a 265-hectare property, where centuries-old woods intertwine with more than 4,000 olive trees, alongside 107 hectares of vines that are skilfully cultivated. The unique vines with their own precious history are planted to Sangiovese and five international varieties. This single piece of land in the sinuous hills of Castelnuovo Berardenga is divided into 9 contiguous, but unique areas, based on its soil characteristics and exposure to the sun, and is accordingly planted with the most suitable varieties in each plot of land.

The philosophy at Vallepicciola is of life that celebrates quality in all of its forms. Vallepicciola is committed to producing quality wines that celebrate their unique terroir, while also sharing their passion for Chianti Classico through personalized cellar experiences that turn each tasting into an exclusive and memorable moment. The vision for Vallepicciola is to become a reference point in the international wine scene. Vallepicciola is also committed to sustainability, and with passion and respect they are committed to enhancing the Tuscan terroir while striving for excellence. The core values at Vallepicciola are family, authenticity, environmental respect, love of beauty, hospitality, and commitment.

Vallepicciola's winery, a project which was designed and completed in 2020, is a silent dialogue between nature and innovation. As guardians of the Tuscan essence, Vallepicciola's winery was a place designed down to the smallest detail, and in the heart of the cellar is where the art of winemaking comes to life. The winery is divided into 3 levels, two of which are underground, and built to be in harmony with the natural beauty of the surrounding area and in balance with nature.

This red wine is crafted using 100% Sangiovese that was grown in Vallepicciola's various vineyards in the Castelnuovo Berardenga zone, at the southern end of the Chianti Classico wine region. The vineyards where these grapes come from are situated between 380 and 440 metres above sea level, on limestone and clay soil with a high presence of marl and limestone. The vines were trained using the Spurred Cordon system. After harvesting the grapes during the second ten days of September, the grapes underwent alcoholic fermentation in temperature-controlled steel tanks, followed by 10 days of maceration. After undergoing malolactic fermentation in large, used French oak barrels, the wine was aged for 10 months in large barrels, followed by a further 6-8 months in second passage barriques. It was further refined in bottle for 3-5 months prior to release.

The 2021 growing season in Chianti Classico, while difficult to generalize due to geographical differences between the various UGAs, was concentrated, hot, and dry, with some irrelevant rainfall during the vegetative development period. Overall, the 2021 Chianti Classico vintage is an excellent one with consistent, high quality across the board. Let's see how this 2021 Chianti Classico is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

VALLEPICCIOLA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2021 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#39690) (XD) - $19.95 $17.40
100% Sangiovese. Enticing and fragrant, the medium-high intensity nose offers lovely aromas of candied red cherry, red licorice, and red plum accented with sweet oak spice, cinnamon, clove, and savoury earth. On the dry, ripe, and medium-full to full-bodied palate it is impressively structured, dense and a bit tight at the moment, with delicious savoury wet earth, dark red cherry, blackberry, oak spice, and dried herb flavours with a lick of stony mineral notes. It has fresh, juicy acidity, while the firmly structured and dusty textured tannins have good grip. Savoury and mineral, with touches of red cherry on the long and slightly grippy finish. Enjoyable now, but will be even better in a couple of years. Highly recommended buy! Score: 91 pts

Other lovely wines by Vallepicciola can be ordered through their Agent - Dionysus Wines & Spirits.

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Castelli del Grevepesa Clemente VII Chianti Classico 2020 (Tuscany) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a delicious Chianti Classico that arrived at the LCBO earlier this month and featured on the back cover of the November 2nd LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by the modern, co-operative winery of Castelli del Grevepesa, which was established in 1965 by visionary Sir Armando Nunzi and an initial group of 17 winegrowers located in different areas of Florentine Chianti Classico. These winegrowers came together in the 1960s because these were difficult years in the Chianti winegrowing region. Their aim was, by working together, to safeguard the land and maintain the age-old traditions of Tuscan winegrowing with the long-established know-how that farmers passed on from one generation to the next. The growers of Grevepesa also had a shared ambition to introduce innovative production methods and techniques, which included careful grape selection and a rigorously controlled vinification process, to produce high quality wines at affordable prices in compliance with the strict regulations of the law and the consortium of Consorzio Gallo Nero, which is now called Consorzio del Chianti Classico.

Today, Castelli del Grevepesa is made up of more than 120 passionate and hard-working associate winegrowers, and is the largest Chianti Classico family. Castelli del Grevepesa is situated in the village of San Casciano Val di Pesa, within the Greve in Chianti subzone of Chianti Classico. The logo of Castelli del Grevepesa is an iris flower that grows naturally between the villages of Val di Greve and Val di Pesa. As a perennial flower, the iris resists both the sweltering heat of summer and the winter frost, and is a symbol of the solidity of Castelli del Grevepesa and its unbreakable bond with Florentine culture and traditions.

The mission of Castelli del Grevepesa's is to be guardians of hundreds of years of tradition, as their ancestors taught them that wine comes, first and foremost, from the vineyard. The family of Grevepesa winegrowers are committed to promoting the land and safeguarding the traditions of ancient craftsmanship. As one of the first co-operative wineries in Italy, one of their founding values is that fine quality wine must be for everyone and is a source of great pride and satisfaction. As a family's duty, Castelli del Grevepesa's policy seeks to reconcile environmental, social, and economic objectives. The fundamental pillar is for the ethical enhancement and protection of natural resources by reducing waste of any kind, followed by respecting the earth, protecting the surrounding biodiversity, and responsibly ensuring that future generations are not compromised. In 2021, their formal project for environmental sustainability finally took shape and got off the ground.

Like the lovely 2019 Castelli del Grevepesa Clemente VII Chianti Classico that I enjoyed in May of last year, the 2020 vintage of this Chianti Classico is also crafted using 100% Sangiovese. The grapes were grown in their vineyards in Campoli, within the municipality of San Casciano in Val di Pesa, Chianti Classico. The vineyards are situated on hills rising up from an alluvial plateau with geological formations of Sillano and Alberese stones. The vines average 15-25 years old, and were trained using the Guyot, spurred cordon system. After handpicking and selecting the best grapes in the second half of September, the grapes were softly crushed and fermented at a thermostatically controlled temperature in stainless steel tanks, with maceration on the skins for 12-15 days. The wine underwent malolactic fermentation in concrete tanks, and was then matured for 12 months - 85% in Slavonian oak cask and 15% in French oak barriques - followed by 3 months in bottle for further refinement.

The 2020 growing season in Chianti Classico was marked by spring frosts that reduced yields. However, the warm summer season and early harvest resulted in ripe, fleshy, and fruit-filled reds. Moreover, the pandemic allowed winegrowers to concentrate their efforts towards every aspect of cultivation, vineyard management, and production. Let's see how this 2020 Chianti Classico from Tuscany is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

CASTELLI DEL GREVEPESA CLEMENTE VII CHIANTI CLASSICO 2020 - Sustainable, DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#421388) (XD) - $22.95
This 100% Sangiovese has a medium+ to medium-high intensity nose that is fresh and ripe with sweet dark red cherry, currant, and clove aromas mingling with oak spices, cinnamon, and underbrush, with touches of dried berry/floral notes. On the dry, medium+ bodied palate it has very ripe dark red cherry, clove spice, cinnamon, oak spice, and underbrush flavours supported by fresh and succulent acidity. Ripe tannins have a fine, dusty texture and a supple grip. Touch of bitterness on the back palate, while the savoury cocoa and oak notes linger on the mineral-tinged finish, with very good length. Enjoy this recommended buy over the near term. Score: 88+ pts

A couple of wines by Castelli del Grevepesa are available at the LCBO, while the full range can be ordered through their Agent - Profile Wine Group, with a couple available as Black Friday Specials.

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Tenuta di Renieri Chianti Classico 2020 (Tuscany) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely, organic Sangiovese from the Chianti Classico DOCG appellation that arrived at the LCBO earlier this month in the October 5th LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

Like the 2013 Tenuta di Renieri Chianti Classico that I enjoyed over six years ago, this red wine is produced by Bacci Wines, a family-owned winery with deep roots in Tuscany. It was established by Marco Bacci, who was born in Florence and embarked on a career path that took him through his family's business that specialized in clothing manufacturing to become an iconic fashion company in Italy. Marco also had a real estate company and acquired several properties, one of which was Castello di Bossi in 1984.

Oenology was a pleasant hobby for Marco, and in 1985 he bottled his first wine. For many years, Marco balanced his commitment to the fashion world with his passion for wine. In 1996, Marco decided to leave the fashion world and dedicate his heart and soul to the wine industry by focusing on the vine and wine. Over the next few years, he acquired estates in Brunello di Montalcino and Morellino di Scansano to complete the coverage of the three main Tuscan DOCGs.

Jacopo Bacci, son of Marco, was born in Florence in 1984, and after obtaining his diploma in scientific studies, he enrolled in the University of Enology in Florence. By 2004, while still studying oenology, Jacobo joined and expanded the family business by taking responsibility for the Italian, English, and German markets. He continued to expand the family's wine brand presence in North American and Asian markets.

Today, the mission of Bacci Wines is to offer their customers the opportunity to enjoy some of the world's best wines at any time and wherever they may be. Bacci Wines is made up of five estates across Tuscany's best territories covering more than 900 hectares of vineyards, while producing various styles of wines across a wide range of labels. The group of wineries are organic and powered by clean energy. The vision is to produce high-quality, organic wines across their entire portfolio. Bacci Wines firmly believes that by choosing an organic approach, they are able to safeguard the beauty and integrity of their land, while also ensuring extraordinary quality standards and an unparalleled tasting experience.

With several estates owned by Bacci Wines, this particular red wine is from their Tenuta di Renieri Estate, which is located in the municipality of Castelnuovo Berardenga, in the southeast of the Chianti Classico territory. This property borders the lands of Castello di Bossi, one of Bacci's other estates, and covers approximately 60 hectares of land, of which 22 hectares are planted to vineyards. Specializing in the production of Chianti Classico and Chianti Classico Riserva, the Renieri estate's vineyards are situated 300 metres above sea-level and south-facing. The soil composition at Renieri varies from yellow clays to tuff, and is supported by a rounded stone skeleton that provides natural drainage.

The 2020 growing season in Chianti Classico was somewhat difficult due to the pandemic and a spring frost which reduced yields. However, the long, hot summer with good diurnal temperature variation and important rainfall in June and September led to an early harvest that resulted in ripe, fleshy, and fruit-filled red wines. The pandemic also allowed winegrowers to concentrate their efforts towards every aspect of cultivation, vineyard management, and production. Let's see how this 2020 Chianti Classico from Tuscany is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

TENUTA DI RENIERI CHIANTI CLASSICO 2020 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#540849) (XD) - $22.95
Aged in wooden casks, this organic Sangiovese has a fragrant, medium-high intensity nose that is savoury and slightly reductive, which blows off and reveals a lovely, attractive mix of ripe red & black cherries, rose floral, savoury earth, and sweet spice aromas, plus whiffs crushed stone and blackberry adding further complexity. On the dry, medium+ bodied palate it has sour dark red cherry, black cherry, blackberry, savoury earth, and oak spice flavours. It has fresh, tangy acidity, while the smooth, supportive, and elegant tannins have good structure and a touch of grip on the back palate. Shows nice balance with savoury earth, mineral, and touches of oak spice lingering on the long, persistent, and juicy finish. Highly recommended buy! Score: 90+ pts

Fine wines from other Bacci Wines estates are available not only at the LCBO, but can also be ordered through their Agent - Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

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Fattoria dei Barbi Brunello di Montalcino 2018 (Tuscany) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is an excellent Brunello di Montalcino that arrived at the LCBO earlier this month in the September 7, 2024 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Fattoria dei Barbi, a winery owned by the Colombini family, one of Tuscany's oldest noble families. The Cinelli Colombini family has owned land in Montalcino since 1352, and the Fattoria dei Barbi since the end of the 18th century.

Historically, the Colombini family has a long history in Siena as one of the noble families. They have been active in the Sienese government since the year 1000, with the first member quoted in the chronicles as Tignoso Colombino. His children were named Colombini, and this has been the family's name ever since. Tignoso lived in a castle in the village of Uopini, just outside Siena, a castle which became a hospital in the Middle Ages and is still in existence today. In 1200, the family was allowed to have a Coat of Arms with four little doves painted on a blue field, a version of which adorns the labels of Fattoria dei Barbi wines.

In the 14th century, the family changed from being wool merchants to banking, with their headquarters in Siena and various branches across Italy and Marseille. In 1352, the Colombini family acquired a share of the Castle of San Giovanni d'Asso and the Castle of Poggio alle Mura, and established the arrival of the Colombini family in Montalcino for the first time. During this century, Giovanni Colombini decided to become a monk and donated all his materialistic possessions to the Church. Over the years, there were many members of the Colombini family, some were saints, while others were womanizers, hedonists, and down right weird (like most families?).

After decades of strictness and austerity, in the 16th century, the family decided to change politically and support the Florentines. The powerful Cosimo dei Medici restored their fortunes and properties. Cosimo, Lucrezio, Ascanio and Giovanni Colombini were among the one hundred Sienese citizens chosen to run the government of the city, with Cosimo becoming Podestà (Mayor) of Montalcino in 1560.

At the beginning of the 19th century, the family lived in Carmignano, near Lucca, while maintaining a strong relationship with Siena. The Bishop of Lucca moved to Montalcino in order to manage his small agricultural properties there, and following him there was Paolo Colombini, a law scholar, who decided to become a Notary. This lucky choice by Paolo started a new chapter in the family history, which lasts to this day. Pio Colombini, son of Paolo, produced the first bottles of Brunello, and also married Elina Padelletti, who is from an ancient and noble family of Montalcino. This marriage increased the family's possessions, encompassing Villa Podernovi, where the cellar and laboratories are located today. Born in 1906, Giovanni Colombini, the son of Pio and Elina, was an innovator and pioneer of modern viticulture, and instrumental in the standing of Fattoria dei Barbi on the global stage. Upon Giovanni's death in 1976, the Fattoria was managed by his daughter, Francesca, and then his nephew, Stefano. Both Francesca and Stefano have helped develop and expand Fattoria dei Barbi into what it is today - a wine estate known for producing some of the finest Brunello di Montalcino that reflect the unique terroir of Montalcino.

Today, Fattoria dei Barbi extends over 306 hectares in Montalcino and Scansano. The property is run by Stefano Cinelli Colombini, an heir of the ancient Sienese line that has been present in Montalcino since 1352. The cellar has over 300 wooden barrels and thousands of bottles laid down for ageing, including bottles from 1870 to the present day, which displays the continuity of Fattoria dei Barbi that makes it unique in Italy. The Fattoria has always been a careful custodian of tradition, while also embracing innovation and a pioneer in every aspect of winemaking. Fattoria dei Barbi can stake its claim to a number of firsts in Montalcino, including exporting the first bottled wine to France in 1817, and creating the first Super Tuscan in 1969. The estate was also a pioneer in the use of organic fertilizers in the 1960s, while also creating the first "artificial nose" to analyze wines in the 1990s. In 2000, Barbi was one of the first to use carbon dioxide for cold fermentation of red wines. The philosophy at Fattoria dei Barbi has always been to know and study the most innovative technologies and combine them with the best traditions to improve everything they produce, without ever changing its distinguishing characteristics.

First produced in 1892, this red wine is crafted with 100% Sangiovese that was grown on the property of Fattoria dei Barbi, in the heart of the hill of Montalcino. The vines were planted on a south-facing vineyard between 1975 and 2017, on marl and alberese limestone soil at an altitude between 300 and 500 metres above sea level. Upon arriving at the winery, the grapes underwent a cold pre-fermentative maceration at a temperature of 16°C in an environment protected by CO², a process which increases the extraction of polyphenols and aroma compounds. The grapes then underwent a 16 to 17-day alcoholic fermentation at a controlled temperature of 27°-28°C. After racking and undergoing malolactic fermentation, the wine was aged in small-to-medium size oak barrels for the first few months, followed by further ageing in larger oak barrels for a total of two years, and then matured in bottle for at least four months prior to release.

The 2018 vintage can be described as cool and classic, producing wines with excellent balance and more immediate drinkability. The season began with a mild January and a colder February with northern winds, along with both months experiencing abundant rain and occasional snow, which helped with water supply. Spring was still very rainy and wet, with temperatures higher than average, while summer was dryer and very hot during the second half of August. At the beginning of September there were a few thunderstorms, which refreshed the temperature and helped the grapes reach a good and balanced maturation, while harvest took place over twelve days during the second half of the month. Overall, it is a variable vintage with mixed results that puts the winemaking style on display. The wines from this vintage tend to be mid-weighted with a slender structure for near to midterm ageing. Let's see how this 2018 Brunello di Montalcino from Tuscany is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

FATTORIA DEI BARBI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2018 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#372938) (XD) - $69.95
100% Sangiovese. The fragrant, slightly perfumed, and medium-high to highly aromatic nose offers attractive aromas of ripe red cherry, strawberry, rose floral, underbrush, herbs, and savoury earth with touches of stony mineral and citrus. On the medium-full to full-bodied palate it is dry with very good structure and lovely dried red cherry, rose floral, savoury scorched earth, mineral, sweet spice flavours, plus touches of tangy orange citrus adding further interest and complexity. It has very good, food-friendly and structured acidity, while the youthful, structured, and chalky textured tannins are integrating nicely. Well-balanced throughout with red cherry and floral notes giving way to savoury earth and minerals on the long, crisp finish, with excellent length. Highly recommended buy that is enjoyable now, but will reward cellaring and drink well into the mid-to-late 2030s. Score: 93 pts

Other excellent wines by Fattoria dei Barbi can be ordered through their Agent - Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

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Castelli del Grevepesa Castelgreve Chianti Classico 2021 (Tuscany) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely Chianti Classico that is mainly Sangiovese. It is featured on the back cover of the August 24th LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection printed magazine (which is unavailable) and being released in stores and online this weekend due to the implications of the strike, and can be purchased now.

Like the excellent 2019 Clemente VII Gran Selezione Chianti Classico and other wines I've enjoyed in the past, this red wine is produced by Castelli del Grevepesa. Situated in the Chianti Classico region of Tuscany, Italy, Castelli del Grevepesa is a modern, co-operative winery that has a history which is deeply intertwined with the rich winemaking heritage of the Chianti Classico wine region.

Castelli del Grevepesa was established with a mission to safeguard and promote the traditional viticulture of Tuscany in 1965 by visionary Sir Armando Nunzi and an initial group of seventeen winegrowers as one of Italy's first co-operative wineries. As small-scale growers, they realized the potential of pooling their resources and generations of know-how to produce wine collectively. In the co-operative model of winemaking, individual vineyard growers maintain their own autonomy in the vineyard, while benefiting from shared facilities, including equipment, and sharing knowledge.

The co-operative has experienced steady growth over the years, growing to more than 120 associate growers to become Chianti Classico's largest family today. Castelli del Grevepesa combines modern and innovative winemaking techniques and technologies with tradition to craft high-quality wines representative of the Chianti Classico wine region, while also upholding the principles of sustainability and environmental stewardship to preserve the land for future generations. Today, Castelli del Grevepesa has great passion and love for their land with a goal to produce wines of high quality at affordable prices.

From their Castelgreve range of wines, which reflect the winery's dedication to crafting high-quality wines that represent the essence of the Chianti Classico region, this red wine is composed of 95% Sangiovese and 5% Merlot primarily from the San Casciano area where the vineyards are planted on ancient alluvial deposits. The grapes were hand-harvested with individual bunch selection and upon arriving at the winery, they were fermented at a controlled temperature of 28°C, with 10 days of skin maceration. The wine underwent ageing for 12 months in Slavonian oak barrels, followed by bottle refining for at least 1 month prior to release.

While vintages in Chianti Classico are difficult to generalize, by all accounts, the 2021 vintage is a magnificent one with consistently high quality wines across the board. The growing season began with a fast start as February was especially warmer than usual, while the warm temperatures returned to normal in March. There were some severe frosts at the beginning of April, but the summer months from June to August experienced elevated temperatures with very little rain. Overall, it was a warm vintage with large diurnal temperature shifts (i.e. daytime highs and nighttime lows) during the last month of ripening helped build colour, tannins, and retain acidity. Let's see how this 2021 Chianti Classico Annata is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

CASTELLI DEL GREVEPESA CASTELGREVE CHIANTI CLASSICO 2021 - Sustainable, DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#573485) (XD) - $18.95
This blend of 95% Sangiovese and 5% Merlot has a fragrant, medium-high intensity nose that is elegantly composed with a fine mix of wood spices, black & red cherry, savoury wet earth, clove, and underbrush aromas, plus hints of cinnamon and blood orange. On the medium-full+ bodied palate it has very good concentration with lovely red & black cherries, red plum, clove, sweet wood spices, cinnamon, earthy oak, and dried herb flavours, all of which is supported by very good, juicy acidity. The fine, creamy tannins are smooth, well-structured, and integrating very nicely. Savoury earth, cocoa, and dried herb notes with a touch of mineral lingers on the long and very satisfying finish. Enjoy this highly recommended buy over the next 3-5 years! Score: 90 pts

While some of the lovely wines by Castelli del Grevepesa wines are available at the LCBO, the entire range can be ordered while collecting AirMiles through their Agent - Profile Wine Group.

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Clemente VII Gran Selezione Chianti Classico 2019 (Tuscany) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely Gran Selezione Chianti Classico from Tuscany that arrived at the LCBO yesterday in the March 16 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

Like the 2019 Castelgreve Riserva Chianti Classico I enjoyed last month, this red wine is produced by Castelli del Grevepesa, a modern co-operative winery that has a history which is deeply intertwined with the rich winemaking heritage of the Chianti Classico wine region of Tuscany, Italy.

Castelli del Grevepesa was established in 1965 by visionary Sir Armando Nunzi and an initial group of seventeen winegrowers as one of Italy's first co-operative wineries. Together, they recognized the potential of pooling their resources and generations of know-how to produce wine collectively. By coming together, the group of small-scale growers were able to safeguard and maintain the age-old tradition of Tuscany winegrowing. In the co-operative model, individual vineyard growers maintain their own autonomy in the vineyard, while benefiting from shared facilities, including equipment, and sharing knowledge.

Over the years, Castelli del Grevepesa experienced steady growth to become Chianti Classico's largest family today, with over 120 associate growers. Situated in the heart of Chianti Classico, they use modern and innovative winemaking techniques and technologies to improve the quality and achieve greater efficiency when producing their wines. Castelli del Grevepesa is dedicated to crafting high-quality wines that represent the essence of the Chianti Classico wine region, while also upholding the principles of sustainability and environmental stewardship to preserve the land for future generations. With a great passion and love for their land, Castelli del Grevepesa's mission is to produce wines of high quality at affordable prices.

This red wine is from Grevepesa's Clemente VII range, which celebrates a member of the famous Florentine Medici family - Giulio de' Medici - who became Pope Clemente VII in the year 1523. Giulio lived in Campoli, within the Chianti Classico region where Castelli del Grevepesa produces their wines today.

Gran Selezione is a relatively new type of Chianti Classico. It was introduced in 2014 and is at the top of the qualitative pyramid of the Chianti Classico denomination. Crafted with 100% Sangiovese, this red wine was grown in Grevepesa's vineyards in Campoli, within the municipality of San Casciano in Val di Pesa, in the Chianti Classico appellation of Tuscany. The vines where this Sangiovese was grown are planted on hills rising up from the alluvial plateau with geological formations of Sillano and Alberese stones. Trained using the Guyot, spurred cordon vine training system, the vines now average 20 to 30 years old. The grapes were harvested from the end of September to the beginning of October by hand, only selecting the best grapes. To vinify this wine, the grapes were gently crushed, fermented in stainless steel tanks with maceration on the skins for 15 days at a thermostatically controlled temperature of a maximum of 28°C. It underwent malolactic fermentation in concrete tanks, followed by ageing in Slavonian oak cask for 24 months, and at least another 6 months in bottle for further refining.

While it is difficult to generalize the growing season in Chianti Classico, 2019 was comparatively easier than the two prior years as it was much drier with no humidity, but avoided drought and heat spikes. The productive vintage resulted in both high quantity and quality, as well as a later harvest into October that is very good for the late-ripening Sangiovese grape varietal. Overall, 2019 is an excellent vintage that will enhance the characteristic features of the Sangiovese grape and the many facets of such a widely varied area in soil diversity and microclimates. Let's see how this 2019 Gran Selezione Chianti Classico is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

CLEMENTE VII GRAN SELEZIONE CHIANTI CLASSICO 2019 - Sustainable, DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#573493) (XD) - $35.95
100% Sangiovese. Elegantly refined, open, and pretty aromatics of pure red cherry, sweet spices, cinnamon, and rose floral notes with a hint of orange layered savoury forest floor aromas. On the chewy, medium-full bodied palate it delivers spicy, savoury earth, dark red cherry, forest herbs, and chocolate flavours. It has very good, juicy, well-balanced, and lightly tangy acidity, while the tannins are smooth and refined, with good structure. Savoury, earthy, and chocolate notes linger on the long, classy finish. Should drink nicely over the next 6-8 years. Highly recommended buy! Score: 91+ pts

Other lovely wines by Castelli del Grevepesa are available not only at the LCBO, but also through their Agent - Profile Wine Group.

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Brancaia N°2 Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 (Tuscany) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is an excellent, organic Cabernet Sauvignon from the Maremma Toscana DOC in Italy that arrived at the LCBO this weekend as part of the feature on Italian Women in Wine in the March 2nd LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Brancaia, a prominent and modern estate winery that was revived in 1981 when the Swiss couple Brigitte and Bruno Widmer fell in love with each other and purchased an abandoned winery on the Brancaia hill in Castellina in Chianti. There were four hectares of vineyards on the site, and with their location on a hill they thought it should be possible to produce first-class wine here that reflects the character of the region. The Widmer family was able to move forward with the production of quality wine and the infrastructure and know-how of the Mazzei family.

In 1986, the family winery gained recognition at an important 1983 vintage Chianti Classico tasting and international acclaim followed soon thereafter. The success of the winery led to expansion in Radda in Chianti in 1989. In 1998, the Widmer's acquired 82 hectares of land facing the Mediterranean Sea (only 10 kilometres away) in the Maremma, within the territory of the municipality of Grosseto, to establish Brancaia in Maremma. Like their other estates, Brancaia planted vineyards in Maremma that were surrounded by forests and, thus, protected it from any spray from their neighbours.

While the Swiss couple laid the foundation stone, Brancaia has long been in the hands of the second generation of the Widmer family. Today, the family business is run by Barbara Widmer, daughter of Brigitte & Bruno. Living on the estate since the 1990s, Barbara took part in her first harvest in 1993, and began studying oenology in Switzerland in 1995. She is supported by the whole family, including the 3rd generation, who is now also involved in smaller tasks, but getting more and more involved every day. For example, her daughter, Nina, helps out with social media activities, while her son, Nicolas, likes to help out in the Osteria’s kitchen.

Brancaia is a top-producer of high-quality, organic wines. Since 1982, only a year after their founding, Brancaia has been cultivating organic viticulture because their vineyards on Brancaia hill were always completely surrounded by forest, and they never had to be concerned that spray from their neighbours would reach Brancaia. All the wines are vinified at Brancaia in cellars and a logistics centre that meets the highest standards. The Widmer family values traditions and feels a strong connection to Tuscany, while also not being afraid to break new ground. Since day one, Brancaia has been producing top-quality wines typical of the region and without compromise. While they are proud of what they have achieved so far, the Widmer family has a drive to keep developing.

First produced in 2015, the "N°2" is the little brother to their flagship Ilatraia wine from Maremma. It is crafted with 100% Cabernet Sauvignon that was grown exclusively in their vineyards in Maremma and is classified as a Maremma Toscana DOC wine, a relatively new appellation that was elevated to DOC status in 2011. The vineyards where this Cabernet Sauvignon was grown are planted on sandy loamy soil, with two-thirds sand and one-third silt and clay, and situated between 75 and 175 metres above sea level with a southwest exposure to the sun. The climate in this area is mediterranean with very hot summers and very mild winters. There are also massive differences between day and nighttime temperatures, as well as a nearly constant coastal breeze from the sea in the west that assures continuous ventilation of the vineyards. To craft this wine, the grapes were hand-picked and spontaneously fermented using cultivated yeast at 28°C, with up to 18 days of must contact. It was matured for 12 months in used tonneaux, followed by further ageing for a few months in bottle.

From a good-to-excellent vintage, let's see how this 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon from Tuscany is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

BRANCAIA N°2 CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2021 - DOC Maremma Toscana, Italy (#28451) (XD) - $33.95
This organic 100% Cabernet Sauvignon has a fragrant, medium-high intensity nose that is ripe with black cherry, red currant, cassis, and Doris plum aromas accented with savoury whiffs of earth and reductive notes. On the medium-full bodied, well-structured palate it has ripe and spicy flavours of black cherry, red currant, plum, forest herbs, mineral, and wet earth with touches of iron. It is juicy with crisp acidity and ripe, well-structured tannins that have some youthful grip. Savoury minerals linger on the long, grippy, well-structured finish. Enjoyable now, but will reward with a few years in the cellar. Drink over the next 8-10 years. Highly recommended buy! Score: 92 pts

Minimal quantities of other fine wines by Brancaia can be found at the LCBO, while the full range can be ordered through their Agent - Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

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Castelgreve Riserva Chianti Classico 2019 (Tuscany) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely Riserva Chianti Classico from Tuscany that arrived at the LCBO as part of the recent February 17th LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Castelli del Grevepesa, a modern co-operative winery that was established in the Chianti Classico wine region of Tuscany in 1965 by visionary Sir Armando Nunzi and an initial group of 17 winegrowers. Situated in Greve in Chianti, the co-operative model allowed small growers to pool their resources to collectively make wines. Castelli del Grevepesa was one of Italy's first co-operative wineries.

Today, Castelli del Grevepesa is Chianti Classico's largest family with over 120 associate growers. Together, they promote the land, while also safeguarding and maintaining the age-old tradition of Tuscan winegrowing. As many of these growers are small, family-owned farms that have been handed down along ancestral lines for generations, the long-established knowledge and traditions are still transferred from one generation to the next. As a co-operative, they also share knowledge and use modern and innovative production methods and techniques to craft their wines. With passion and love for their land, Castelli del Grevepesa's mission is to produce wines of high quality at affordable prices.

This red wine is from Castelli del Grevepesa's historical line of wines named Castelgreve, a collection of wines that have been produced since the 1970s and whose name is derived from the company's full name. The Castelgreve collection of wines reflects the winery's dedication to crafting high-quality wines which represent the essence of the Chianti Classico region. Like the 2018 Castelgreve Riserva Chianti Classico that I enjoyed about a year and a half ago, this red wine is crafted mainly with Sangiovese (min. 80% as per the regulations), plus other permitted varieties. After hand-harvesting the grapes with individual grape selection, it was fermented at a controlled temperature. It was matured for a minimum of 24 months in oak barrels, followed by further refinement for 3 months in bottle.

While 2018 was a challenging vintage, 2019 was a comparatively easy ride as it was much drier with no humidity, as well as without the drought and heat spikes of 2017. Quantity and quality is high across the region, with an excellent vintage that will enhance the characteristic features of the Sangiovese grape and the many facets of such a widely varied area in rich soil diversity and microclimates. Let's see how this 2019 Riserva Chianti Classico from Tuscany is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

CASTELGREVE RISERVA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2019 - Sustainable, DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#344416) (XD) - $23.95
Crafted mainly with Sangiovese, the medium+ to medium-high intensity nose offers enticing red and black cherry, spices, cedar wood, wet earth, and baking spice aromas. It's medium+ bodied and dry with elegant red and black cherry, and savoury wet earth flavours accented with oak spice, cedar, and forest floor notes. It has fresh, juicy acidity and while the grainy textured tannins have some tannic grip. There's a touch of graphite minerality on the mid-palate which lingers through to the savoury, smoky, long, and juicy finish. Best enjoyed over the next 4-5 years and a highly recommended buy! Score: 90 pts

Other lovely wines by Castelli del Grevepesa are available at the LCBO and through their Agent - Profile Wine Group.

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La Vite Lucente 2021 (Tuscany) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely Super Tuscan that arrived at the LCBO today and is part of theme of Fine Wines for Festive Entertaining in the December 2nd LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Tenuta Luce, a winery project that was formed in the early 1990's when Vittorio Frescobaldi met Robert Mondavi. From that meeting, a new chapter in great Tuscan wines was written, with a dream to create a wine in Montalcino (Tuscany), the land of choice for the production of excellent wines that, while acknowledging and celebrating tradition, went beyond the boundaries of tradition by treasuring the experiences of two historic wine families. The ambitious project took the name of Tenuta Luce - a name that evokes the sunlight of Montalcino. The sun is also the source of life and nourishment, while also marking the passage of the seasons and sets the pace for all agricultural activity. Sol Solis, or the radiant sun, is the inspiring symbol of Luce's brand. It is the sun that is chiseled on the main altar of the Church of Santo Spirito, in Florence, that was commissioned in the 15th century to Brunelleschi and built on land donated by the Frescobaldi family. Luce is an homage to the sun that provides warmth, energy, and life.

Tenuta Luce is located on the land of Montalcino, a land which is the origin of everything and their home, as well as a magical place where wine is life, tradition, and culture. The land of Montalcino is perched on an enchanting hill that retains is medieval charm, while the surrounding area is classically Tuscan with gentle slopes covered with vineyards, olive groves, and woods. Montalcino is also a territory with a microclimate of unparalleled value for the cultivation of grapevines.

The values at Tenuta Luce begins with wine that is the most natural expression of the territory where it is produced, while also reflecting the characteristics of the grapes from which it is obtained. The work begins with great care in tending the vines to enhance the precious harmony in the vineyard and continues all the way to the winery, where the ripe grapes are brought in and vinified in steps with great attention to detail that reflects the philosophy of the Estate. Respect is also a core value at Tenuta Luce - respect for the land, the vineyards, and the people who work there. People's intelligence and curiosity must be respected and stimulated, as this intelligence encourages and fuels continuous improvement. The beauty of nature must be preserved and nurtured, protected and nourished, as it is from this beauty that they draw inspiration to exceed and do better. As guests of this world, Tenuta Luce is driven to leave the land in a better place than how they found it for future generations. As such, the vineyards are planted only and strictly according to the suitability of each parcel, while aiming to safeguard the biodiversity of the land that makes Luce unique.

Luce's vineyards are situated on slopes to the southwest of the village of Montalcino. The heterogeneous vineyards have different exposures to the sun, a variety of soils, and altitudes ranging from 280 to 418 metres above sea level. The soils are schistose in the upper range, rich in yellow sands and sandstones in the central belt, and mixed-clayey at lower elevations. The altitude and southern exposure of the vineyards support a slow and complete ripening of the grapes to produce wines of great concentration and vigor, while the cool, breezy nights help preserve the aromatic complexity of the grapes and acidity in the wines. Merlot is an integral component of Luce's wines, as the first Merlot grapes arrived in Montalcino thanks to the Frescobaldi family.

This red wine is crafted with Merlot and Sangiovese. Both grapes were harvested in magnificent weather in September (the Merlot on September 3 and Sangiovese ten days later), and after the grapes were brought to the winery, they were fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks for 10 days, with maceration on the skins for 20 days. After undergoing malolactic fermentation, the wine was aged for 12 months in new and used barriques.

The growing season in 2021 began with a severe winter that brought little moisture, followed by a spring that started dry and mild, with above-average temperatures at times, particularly in March. While temperatures plunged to freezing at the beginning of April throughout Tuscany, Tenuta Luce's vineyards fortunately suffered no damage due to the high-elevation Sangiovese vineyards that were situated above the cold air, while the Merlot buds were still protected by their cottony sheath. Preceding the flowering stage, the first bout of heat arrived in late May. The summer months were hot and dry, while a timely rainfall in mid-July helped lower temperatures, provided relief to the vines, and created the ideal conditions for veraison. In August, there was some beneficial rainfall that lowered the heat and encouraged significant diurnal temperature variation between day and night, conditions which helped preserve aromatic crispness and ripeness in the berries. Harvest was carried out in magnificent weather with no rain. From a good-to-excellent and healthy vintage, let's see how this 2021 Super Tuscan is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

LA VITE LUCENTE 2021 - IGT Toscana, Italy (#747030) (XD) - $32.95
This blend of Merlot and Sangiovese has a medium+ intensity nose takes some coaxing to open up, offering attractive notions of rich and ripe red & black cherry, cedary wood, baking spice, and savoury wet earth aromas. It's medium-full bodied with lovely, ripe, red and black cherry, baking spice, rose floral, clove, sandalwood, and earthy flavours that are supported by fresh and juicy acidity. Rich, structured tannins are youthful and somewhat grippy with a slightly chalky texture. Earthy with mineral notes linger on the long, grippy, and well-structured finish. Having tasted several vintages of this wine, this is probably my favourite. Enjoyable now, but will reward with time in the cellar. Best over the next 7-8 years and a highly recommended buy! Score: 91 pts

Other fine wines by Tenuta Luce recently arrived at the LCBO, but can also be ordered through their Agent - Mark Anthony Wine & Spirits.

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Cavaliere d'Oro Riserva Chianti Classico 2018 (Tuscany) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a consistently well-made and lovely Riserva Chianti Classico that arrived at the LCBO over the weekend in the October 21 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Castello di Gabbiano (CDG), an historic castle and winery whose story began with the construction of the cellars in the year 1124 in the heart of the Chianti region in Tuscany, Italy. In that epoch, the castle belonged to the Bardi family, one of the most important banking families of Florence. In the second half of the 13th century, the family began the extension of the fortress by building perimeter walls and battlements in the typical Guelph style of the era. The castle remained in the Bardi family until the early part of the 15th century, until it was passed on to the Soderini family, one of the most politically influential families in Florence.

The Soderini family converted the turreted family house of Gabbiano in Fattoria, which was completed by the late 15th century. It was during the period of Soderini's ownership, in 1464, when the land survey was presented by Tommaso Soderini to the "Officials" of the Land Registry of the Republic of Florence, where it was noted that wine and oil were the most highly prized produce of the estate.

Over the course of a century, the Soderini family added new buildings on several occasions, as can be deduced from the stonework which revealed various phases of development, until it was converted into a large quadrilateral building, which also formed a kind of private fortalice that was anchored with four cylindrical turrets reinforcing the corners. By 1505, the Soderini family converted the castle into a structure more like the present day version, with a round tower erected at each corner of the castle, displaying French architectural influence. Unfortunately, the Soderini's were declared rebels by the powerful Medici family during a struggle in the 16th century, which led to them being banned from Florence, and the castle abandoned for a long time. However, the Soderini family was able to return to their homeland in the 17th century and gave the castle new life.

From the 19th century onwards, the families who owned the property carried out various restoration works, while fully respecting the architectural features of the castle. One such building is a neo-classical style private chapel that was built in the 19th century while under the ownership of the Del Turco family.

Today, Castello di Gabbiano is owned by the multinational alcoholic beverage company Treasury Wine Estates. Castello di Gabbiano is situated in UGA of Castellina in Chianti and has 147 hectares of vines, of which 109 hectares are DOCG Chianti Classico, with 85% of their vines planted to Sangiovese, while applying certified sustainable viticulture practices across all of their vineyards and respecting the environment. In the winery, ancient traditions are combined with innovation and modern technology. The ancient cellar of the castle, which has been in use since the 14th century, has been skilfully restored while fully respecting the original architecture.

The winemaker at Castello di Gabbiano is Federico Cerelli. He joined CDG in 2011 after gaining 10 years of experience working at prestigious Italian wineries and supervising important winemaking projects in Tuscany and the Chianti Classico wine region. Federico trusts the most traditional practices that, over time, have become established the best - while embracing modern technology. This led to the creation of the first fermentation system with a mechanized and computerized punching down system.

Named Cavaliere d’Oro, which means "The Gold Knight", this red wine is crafted with 95% Sangiovese and 5% Merlot, using only the finest grapes from their estate vineyards. The fruit parcels from the different sites were kept separate during the vinification and ageing process, providing the winemaker with an enticing range of flavours and textures to create the final, blended wine. The grapes underwent alcoholic fermentation on skins in small, stainless steel tanks, followed by a secondary natural malolactic fermentation - with half in stainless steel and the other half in natural French oak - to help round out the wine while obtaining optimal acidity and freshness. The oak ageing occurred for 10 months in 15 to 30 hectolitre casks and 225 litre barrels, with only 10% new oak, and underwent further maturation for 12 months in bottle prior to release. Let's see how this 2018 Riserva Chianti Classico from Tuscany is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

CAVALIERE D'ORO RISERVA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2018 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#216309) (XD) - $24.95
This blend of 95% Sangiovese and 5% Merlot has richly fragrant and spicy aromas rising out of the glass, followed by attractive and captivating notes of pure red cherry, cinnamon, sweet spices, clove, forest floor, and orange citrus with hints of wet earth. The spicy notes continue on the medium-full to full-bodied palate, joined by lovely dark red cherry, savoury oak spices, forest floor, leather, and orange citrus flavours. Some dried herbal characters appear on the juicy mid-palate, with fresh acidity, while the fine-grained tannins are impressively structured. Savoury with touches of mineral and leather linger on the long, juicy finish. Enjoy this highly recommended buy to the end of the decade! Score: 91 pts

One other wine from Castello di Gabbiano is available at the LCBO, while other wines from their portfolio can be ordered through their Agent - Mark Anthony Wine & Spirits.

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