2019 Poggio Anima Belial Toscana IGT, Italy, Tuscany, Wine Review

This is 100% Sangiovese grape from Tuscany grown near Sienna. It is unclear why this is not labelled as Chianti (though it probably could be), but no matter, this is very enjoyable. Delicious and punches way above its weight class. Ruby/purple in color, mostly clear and bright. The nose has bold cherry fruit with some tea leaves and a touch of wintergreen. On the palate, the cherries come thru with a bit of spice. Firm tannins. Black licorice on the finish. This is drinking well now but will certainly mature and possibly improve. It drinks well on its own, but wines like this are made for food. Pasta and pizza are the obvious choices but roasted veggies would be another great choice. Drink over the next five to eight years.

Grade:

A-

Score:

Vintage:

2019

Current Price:

$13.00USD

Brunello: An Italian Wine Scandal Ferments in Montalcino

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There really is little question as to what the two most famous and prestigious wines from Italy are: Barolo and Brunello di Montalcino. That is not to say they are the best wines, but that they have a history of being some of the best wines exported from Italy. The next series of articles will examine Brunellos (for a review on Barolo see the previously posted three part series on this site ). Brunello di Montalcino is a wine made from grapes grown in vineyards surrounding the hilltop town of Montalcino (about 5 miles south of Sienna) in Tuscany.

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Best Super Tuscan “Value” Wines

Super Tuscan wines can be expensive and, let's face it, with the Euro kicking the Dollar's butt, finding a Super Tuscan that doesn't break the bank can be a challenge. IntoWine.com asked our panel of wine experts to recommend the best Super Tuscan "Value" wines: A Sangiovese-less Super Tuscan!?!? Specifically I suggest the 2003 Rocca di Montegrossi "Geremia". I know, I know. There’s no Sangiovese in this Super Tuscan! It’s 60/40 Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, respectively. And truly, it is a brutish wine, filled with tannin and body and yet there is a substantial amount of finesse. The 2003 vintage was a beauty for Northern Italy, unlike 2002.

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2019 Poggio Anima Belial Toscana IGT, Italy, Tuscany, Wine Review

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