From: Tuscany, Italy
Varietals: Sangiovese, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc
Critical Acclaim and Taste:
Mostly Sangiovese with the other 30% composed of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, the 2016 Pergolaia is all about matching grapes to soils, a tribute to Tuscany from a French-owned estate better known for its international approach. This vintage has slightly less Sangiovese than usual in order to create a more accessible wine, with more freshness and juiciness. It's almost crunchy in texture, a full-bodied red that covers the whole mouth. The aging is spread out evenly between botte and tonneaux, as they reserved the big wood for the more delicate Sangiovese grape. The fruit here shows perfect ripeness with lots of primary intensity and freshness. It's a versatile red to match with all kinds of pastas and meats. It's ready to open now or to age for just a few more years. - WA 92 pt
Flavors of black cherry and blackberry stand up to the dense tannins in this fresh, deep and intense red, but this is equally about the vibrant acidity driving the fruit, wild herb nuances and spice-infused aftertaste. Sangiovese with Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Best from 2022 through 2040. 4,700 cases made, 1,200 cases imported. - WS 94 pt
Taste: In the glass, the nose is intense and complex, with aromas of black cherry and blackcurrant blending with notes of cinnamon and clove. As the wine opens up in the glass, additional aromas of leather, tobacco, and dried wild herbs emerge, adding to the wine's complexity. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and rich, with silky tannins and balanced acidity. The flavors mirror the nose, black cherry and blackcurrant flavors complemented by baking spice. As the wine opens up, additional flavors of leather, tobacco, and those awesome dried herbs emerge, along with a touch of minerality on the palate that adds freshness and complexity to the wine. The finish is long and persistent, with lingering notes of dark fruit and spice.
Pairing: This wine is a full-bodied and complex red blend from Tuscany that pairs well with a range of hearty meat dishes, roasted vegetables, and mature cheeses. We’ve included a list of possible pairings below for all your dinner inspiration!
For general pairings, this wine would be an excellent match for grilled or roasted meats, such as beef tenderloin, lamb chops (keep going for an awesome lamb chop recipe), or roasted pork shoulder.
In terms of regional specialties, this wine would be a great match for traditional Tuscan dishes such as bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine-style steak), pappardelle al cinghiale (pasta with wild boar ragù), or crostini di fegatini (chicken liver pâté on toast). These dishes are rich and flavorful, and the wine's bold flavors and tannins can stand up to the intensity of the flavors.
For vegetarian options, this wine would be an excellent match for roasted or grilled vegetables, such as eggplant, peppers, and portobello mushrooms. The wine's full body and complex flavors can complement the smoky, earthy flavors of the vegetables, while the acidity can help to cut through any richness.
Lamb Chops Scottadito With Crispy Kale
Recipe from Rachael Ray
Adapted by Kim Severson
At a Glance:
Caiarossa is a Tuscan wine estate situated to the southeast of the city of Pisa. It produces a range of regional Tuscan wines that largely fall under the Toscana IGT classification.
When the estate was first established in 1998, it was done so with a clear focus on organic agricultural practices. Biodynamic and organic farming approaches are still applied throughout the 31 hectares (77 acres) of vineyards.
This wine is a Super Tuscan, a blend of Sangiovese and all of the Bordeaux Blends including Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Organic wine with biodynamic practices.