2013 Fontodi Syrah Case Via Colli della Toscana Centrale IGT, Italy, Tuscany, Wine Review

One of the best Syrahs from Italy (not exactly a great compliment) and from one of the best wineries in Tuscany. Inky purple in color. The nose has a slight aquarium note and one wonders how long this has sat on a warm shelf (if at all). Mostly, that is a question because these often don't sell without encouragement from a shop owner or sommelier. On the palate, it seems much fresher. Nice acidity. Black cherry fruit. Light tannins. It takes some time but opens in the glass. A unique expression of Syrah, the vineyards are warm but the profile is a bit cooler. There is some depth. Its from Italy so obviously it goes with a wide variety of foods but probably meats would be best. This retails for around $70.

Grade:

Score:

Vintage:

2017

2017 Castello Romitorio Romitoro Toscana IGT, Italy, Tuscany, Wine Review

Vintage:

2017

Score:

Grade:

A-

Current Price:

$20.00USD

This IGT wine from Tuscany is a blend of 50% Petit Verdot and 50% Syrah. It really is an excellent value. Deep ruby in color. The nose has black cherries, plums, slight cedar and a bit of herbs. On the palate, this is medium bodied with a lovely energy. Lighter in style considering the varietals. Nice black cherry fruit with an underlying earthy/gravel quality. Nice backbone of acidity. Long finish. This drinks well on its own and will work well with pizza or burgers. This should continue to drink well for the next five to seven years.

2017 Argiano Non Confunditur Toscana IGT, Italy, Tuscany, Wine Review

Vintage:

2017

Score:

Grade:

A-

Current Price:

$18.00USD

This is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Sangiovese which makes it a "Super Tuscan". It is, however, not expensive and truly a great value. Purple in color, ruby at the rim. The nose is nice with black cherries, cherries, baking spices and slight woodiness. On the palate, this is medium bodied. A nice backbone of acidity. It has a soft but inviting texture. Delicious red berry fruit with underlying dry earthiness. Medium finish. This drinks great on its own but is better with food. A great "pizza wine". It should be good for another five to seven years.

2021 Marchesi de' Frescobaldi Alie Ammiraglia Toscana IGT, Italy, Tuscan, Wine Review

Vintage:

2021

Score:

Grade:

A-

Current Price:

$24.00USD

This is an intriguing blend of Syrah and Vermentino made into a Rose from Tuscany. Deep salmon pink in color, clear and bright. The nose is clean with cranberries and some strawberries. Medium bodied. Slightly sweet on the palate. Mostly cherries and some strawberries. Nice finish. This is a light and refreshing wine but the Syrah gives it just a touch of seriousness. Nice on its own and very food friendly. Drink now.

2021 Cantine Paolini Sicilia Gurgò Frappato-Syrah, Italy, Sicily, Wine Review

Vintage:

2021

Score:

Grade:

This is a blend of 60% Frappato and 40% Syrah from Sicily. Violet in color, mostly clear and bright. The nose has raspberries, black cherries and char. Medium bodied. Silky texture. Medium tannins. On the palate, this has big fruit; raspberries and black raspberries along with char and thyme. There is some depth as well. Long finish. Like most Italian wines, this is better with food. This would work well with plate of pasta with mushrooms. Drink over the next five years.

Donnafugata 2017 Mille E Una Notte

Vintage:

2017

Score:

Grade:

Current Price:

$82.00USD

An almost shy wine, this flagship red from Donnafugata does not announce itself with overt fruit. The wine needs some time to coax out the subtle flavors and the tight tannins at the outset tell you to wait a while before it opens up. When it does plum, muted strawberry, pomegranate, baked cherry and rose water dominate the opening. Comprised of Nero d’Avola, Petit Verdot, and Syrah, the tannins and acidity support the judicious use of oak. Aged 14 months in small French oak barrels it then spent 20 months in bottle rest. The result is a lovely wine that will work with a variety of foods.

2013 Fontodi Syrah Case Via Colli della Toscana Centrale IGT, Italy, Tuscany, Wine Review

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