Red Wine Tenuta Ulisse Nativae Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2018. No need to decant it, but best to open it half an hour before serving it. Founded in 2006, Tenuta Ulisse is a symbol of the Abruzzo oenological Renaissance. The search for absolute quality is the goal of this winery, which the Ulisse family aims to achieve through the perfect balance between tradition and modernity. The winery, in fact, is very linked to the historical vines and traditions of Abruzzo but with a particular attention to modern winemaking technologies and their continuous evolution. Tenuta Ulisse Nativae is the quintessential Montepulciano D’Abruzzo. It is produced entirely from Montepulciano grapes coming from the province of Chieti, in the heart of Abruzzo. Grapes are grown on calcareous clay soil, from a 20-year-old vineyard cultivated according to the rules of eco-sustainability, without any chemical treatment. They are then carefully selected and harvested by hand in early November. Spontaneous fermentation takes place in cement tanks without any filtration. The wine matures first in cement tanks and then in bottles before entering the market. It has an intense red color with garnet reflections. On the nose, it is deep and elegant with hints of wild herbs and spices, enriched with notes of ripe plum. On the palate, it is strong and intense, pleasantly acidic, and with a good balance of tannins. It’s the ideal partner for grilled red meat, game and Pecorino cheese.
2018
Red Wine Tenuta Ulisse Nativae Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2018
Red Wine Tenute del Cabreo Cabreo Il Borgo 2018. Drink now or cellar for up to 20 years, additional aging will benefit this wine. Decant before drinking. A project of the Folonari family winery of the famed Chianti estate Tenute di Nozzole, the Tenute del Cabreo was purchased by Nino Folonari in 1967. The estate covers roughly 60 hectares, 45 of which are planted with Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, for a true Super Tuscan that has been delighting palates since 1982. The stony soils and densely planted vines produce low yields but grapes that are concentrated and complex resulting in intense, age worthy wines. Fermentation takes place in stainless-steel tanks with an extended maceration time for extracted color, body and tannin. The wine spends 24 months in French oak barrels and another six months in bottle before release. On the nose, the Cabreo Il Borgo is fruit-driven with blackcurrant, stewed plum and dried red cherries in the first whiff. Secondary notes of leather, tar and sweet oak steal the spotlight for a moment as well. The palate is plush and silky with soft tannins and a delicate acidity. Cherry, licorice and vanilla blend with cigar box for a beautiful, bold wine that pairs well with lamb, poultry, beef, and hard cheeses. Drink today or save for a special occasion.
2018
Red Wine Tenute di Nozzole Il Pareto 2018. Drink now or cellar for up to 15 years, additional aging will benefit this wine. Decant before drinking. Nestled in the heart of Tuscany’s Chianti Classico zone, just north of the village of Greve, the farm of Tenute di Nozzole dates back as far as 1300 and includes a total of 385 hectares, 90 of which have been planted to vineyards and 15 to olive groves. The estate was acquired by the Folonari family in 1971 and has stayed in the family since. With a strong focus on quality production over quantity, the wines of Tenute di Nozzole showcase elegance and character that represent the terroir they come from. Sitting at 350 meters in elevation, the 10-acre Il Pareto vineyard rests on clay soil with lime and marble-sized stones. Featuring galestro, a soil type described as rocky, schistous clay which is found in most of Tuscany’s best vineyards, the Il Pareto vineyard is ideal for growing Cabernet Sauvignon. The Il Pareto vineyard is harvested by hand, and grapes are fermented in stainless steel tanks. The wine is then aged in Allier oak barriques for 24 months and further bottle-aged for a minimum of six months. The Toscana Il Pareto has been awarded 95 points by James Suckling. Composed of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the wine is bold, full-bodied and brings forth an exquisite intensity on the palate. Black fruit leads the way here, with notes of earth, mocha and baking spice. The tannins are firm yet inviting with nice acidity to round out the high alcohol and depthness. Pair with hearty meat dishes, cured meats, tomato-based pasta, and portobello mushroom.
2018