tasting report: top 100 new super tuscans in 2012

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TASTING REPORT: TOP 100 NEW SUPER TUSCANS IN 2012
August 29th, 2012
This year I have already tasted close to 1,000 Tuscan
wines, and I still have a few hundred more wines to go
– mostly whites. I have found hundreds of outstanding
quality wines.
Rather than slow you down with all of them at once, I
have decided to give you my top 100 Super Tuscan
wines to date. This includes wines under the
appellation of IGT Toscana as well as regions such as
Alta Valle della Greve, Bolgheri, Cortona, Colli della
Toscana Centrale, Maremma Toscana, and
Sant'Antimo. (The photo above is from Chianti
Classico.)
When all my new Tuscan wine tasting notes are posted on the site, I will provide you with a complete list of Tuscan wines, including
Brunellos. The wines will be ordered according to score and also alphabetically.
“The 2009 harvest is one of my favorite recent years,” said Lamberto Frescobaldi of the famous Florentine winemaking clan.
”There were no extreme temperatures during the summer. And then the temperatures rose in September and we had very little
rain. It was great for Cabernet Sauvignon, but the king variety for Tuscany – Sangiovese – also gained a lot.”
For now, most of the wines I have tasted this summer are super Tuscan reds from 2009, a beautiful year that produced refined
wines with plenty of pure fruit and racy tannins. Most of my top 2009s came from growing costal regions such as Bolgheri and the
best sub-areas of Chianti Classico. They are all so very approachable and beautiful now but will improve for decades ahead. I
seemed to have a preference for international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
Some of my favorites from 2009 include: Sassicaia (98 points), Guado al Tasso (97), Messorio (97), and Solaia (97). Some of
the high-scoring wines that may be less known to you include: Chianti Classico’s Casaloste Inversus, Riparbella’s Castiglion del
Bosco Prima Pietra, and Valdarno’s Caberlot. I scored all three of these 96 points.
Check out two videos on Prima Pietra – one on the vineyard and one on the wine. Two more are coming on Caberlot.
This all said, my favorite wine of my Tuscan tasting was
the 2008 Castello dei Rampolla d’Alceo. I scored this
magnificent wine 100 points. It is truly perfect.
Everything – the fruit, tannins and acidity – is in perfect
proportion. This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit
Verdot is so refined and ethereal. It’s a wine you fall in
love with tasting. The di Napoli family is extraordinary at
winemaking. Moreover, they organically grow all of
Rampolla’s grapes.(I am tasting with Luca Di Napoli in
the photo at his estate.)
Check out two videos on Rampolla from last year – one
filmed in the vineyards and the other during a tasting in
the property’s garden.
It’s amazing how many excellent to fabulous vintages Tuscany has experienced recently: 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009,
2010, and 2011. I honestly didn’t expect to find so many superb wines from the 2009 vintage after so many marvelous wines from
earlier years.
Last night I had an engaging conversation with a winemaker from Brunello di Montalcino who said that Italian winemakers do not
differentiate their vintages enough. “Most winemakers say that every vintage is outstanding,” he said, urging his colleagues to note
the individual nuances of various wines and years.
Yet, the number of excellent wines being produced in just about every vintage in Tuscany makes the task of distinguishing one
www.jamessuckling.com/tasting-report-top-100-new-super-tuscans-in-2012.html
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year from another for particular wines difficult for some winemakers. In fact, it’s difficult for all of us who love Tuscan wines.
(Photos: Castello dei Rampolla and Luca di Napoli)
CASTELLO DEI RAMPOLLA
TOSCANA D'ALCEO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2008
SCORE
100
TENUTA SAN GUIDO
BOLGHERI-SASSICAIA
SASSICAIA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Love this. Fabulous aromas of currants and blackberries. Hints of licorice, Indian spices and dried
violets. Full-bodied, ultra-fine tannins and amazing fruit, yet so vibrant, racy and balanced. The
structure of Margaux with the style of Rampolla. Best ever. Blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit
Verdot. From organically grown grapes. Leave it for at least five or six years.
$$
TASTING NOTES
This is fantastic. Intense and super long on the palate. It's insanely complex yet subtle with so
much going on, with a beautiful balance and tension. It is full and powerful with a big juicy
character that goes on for minutes. Muscular yet covered with pretty fruit. Elegance with force.
Hard not to drink. But better in 2016.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
98
ANTINORI BOLGHERI
SUPERIORE GUADO AL
TASSO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
Best Guado al Tasso ever. Wonderful nose of crushed blackberries and cherries with hints of dark
chocolate. Full-bodied, with soft and round tannins and a long, long finish. It goes on for minutes.
Now just a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Better after 2015.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
97
LE MACCHIOLE TOSCANA
MESSORIO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
97
ANTINORI TOSCANA SOLAIA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
96
CASALOSTE TOSCANA
INVERSUS
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
I have tasted this wine a number of times and it ranges from 97 to 98 points in my scoring. The
subtlety and depth to this is amazing. Aromas of ripe fruit, chili powder, and toasted oak with hints
of rosemary follow through to a full body, with very fine tannins and a long finish. Integrated and
attractive now, but better in 2014.
$$
TASTING NOTES
A Solaia with lots of currants, berries and milk chocolate yet reserved and focused. Full body, with
refined tannins and an alluring finish. Needs at least two or three years to come together. Can't
decide if I like this better than the superb 2008. Better in 2015.
$$
TASTING NOTES
Gorgeous aromas of crush raspberries and blueberries. Hints of wild flowers. Full body, with super
well-integrated tannins and a long, long finish. This is superb. Best wine ever from here. Made
from organic grapes. Try in 2015.
$$
www.jamessuckling.com/tasting-report-top-100-new-super-tuscans-in-2012.html
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VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
96
CASTELLO DEI RAMPOLLA
TOSCANA SAMMARCO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Ravishing aromas of currants and black fruits follow through to a full body, with super velvety
tannins and a long, long finish. It lasts for minutes on the palate. Wonderful. A blend of Cabernet
Sauvignon, Sangiovese, and Merlot. From organically grown grapes. Better in 2015, but why wait?
$$
VINTAGE
2008
SCORE
96
CASTIGLION DEL BOSCO
TOSCANA PRIMA PIETRA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
96
CARNASCIALE TOSCANA IL
CABERLOT
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Aromas of currants and raspberries with hints of licorice and mint. Full-bodied, with very wellintegrated tannins and wonderful length. This is very, very classic. Goes on for minutes on the
palate. Stunning third edition bottle of this Bordeaux blend from Massimo Ferragamo from his
vineyards in Ripabella. Try in 2015.
$$
TASTING NOTES
This is fabulous as always. Gorgeous aromas and flavors of blackberries and mint. Full-bodied.
Seamless tannins flow over your palate and caress every bit. Wonderful length. One of Tuscany's
cult wines. Better in 2015.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
96
LA MASSA TOSCANA
GORGIO PRIMO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2010
SCORE
96
TENIMENTI LUIGI
D'ALESSANDRO CORTONA
MIGLIARA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
The nose is breathtaking with raspberries, flowers and cassis. Some Tuscan mint. Full and racy
with a fine line of bright acidity and super fine creamy tannins. Licorice, lead pencil and subtle fruit.
Power with finesse. A blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot. This
was a very late harvest here and a hailstorm cut production 30%. Only 7,000 bottles made instead
of normal 20,000. Try in 2016.
$$
TASTING NOTES
Wow. This is so deep with subtle fruit as well as walnuts, raw meat and tar. Very Cote Rotie. Full,
dense and layered with beautiful fruit and sliced meat undertones. Long and gorgeous. So pretty
and intense. Better in 2014, but why wait?
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
96
TENUTA DELL'ORNELLAIA
BOLGHERI SUPERIORE
ORNELLAIA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
TASTING NOTES
Subtle and complex with sweet tobacco and chocolate. Tar too. It's full-bodied, with racy tannins
and a long finish. So fine. This is the most Cabernet Franc in the blend ever at the estate -- 52%
Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot. Beautiful now
but better in 2015.
$$
2009
www.jamessuckling.com/tasting-report-top-100-new-super-tuscans-in-2012.html
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SCORE
96
TUA RITA TOSCANA
REDIGAFFI
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
A very harmonious Redigaffi. Blueberry with chili powder on the nose. Full body, with ultra-fine
tannins and a beautiful palate. It's a wonderfully balanced and crafted young wine. Pure Merlot.
Better in 2015.
$$
VINTAGE
2010
SCORE
96
ARGIANO TOSCANA SUOLO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
95
BIBI GRAETZ TOSCANA
COLORE
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2005
SCORE
95
BRANCAIA TOSCANA IL BLU
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
95
CABREO TOSCANA IL
BORGO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Sweet berry aromas with hints of dried meat and flowers. Full body, with velvety tannins and a ripe,
juicy fruit finish. So flavorful now yet has a subtle and intriguing complexity. Best Suolo ever. Pure
Sangiovese. Drink or hold.
$$
TASTING NOTES
Loads of blueberries and flowers on the nose follow through to a full body, with polished tannins
and an intense finish. New wood is still showing slightly in the center palate but this is going to
come together beautifully with bottle age. Made from pure Colorino from old vines on the hills
overlooking Florence. Tiny production. Lovely now.
$$
TASTING NOTES
Intense aromas of blackberries and currants follow through to a full body, with a gorgeous core of
ripe fruit and ultra-fine tannins. It remains fresh and beautiful. So delicious now but better in 2015.
A blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Best wine ever from here.
$$
TASTING NOTES
Love the aromas of smoky meats and spices with salami as well. Turns to Indian spices. Full yet
delicate and delicious. Long juicy, fruity and complex finish. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and
Sangiovese. Why wait? But it will be much better in two or three years, and beyond.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
95
CAIAROSSA TOSCANA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
95
CASANOVA DI NERI
TASTING NOTES
Best ever from here. This is a wine that is sexy and caressing with polished and very fine tannins.
Full body, with cool and bright fruit and a long currant, mint and mineral aftertaste. Very fine
indeed. A blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Petit
Verdot, and Syrah.
$$
TASTING NOTES
www.jamessuckling.com/tasting-report-top-100-new-super-tuscans-in-2012.html
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TOSCANA PIETRADONICE
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
95
CASTELLO DI AMA
TOSCANA L'APPARITA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
This pure Cabernet Sauvignon shows fabulous depth and richness. Currants, berries, sweet
tobacco, and lead pencil aromas and flavors, it's long and invigorating to taste. The tannins are
wonderfully integrated. Better in 2015.
$$
TASTING NOTES
Big and velvety with loads of dark fruit and milk chocolate. Full body, with velvety tannins and a
decadent finish. Like chocolate mousse at the end. Turns very, very delicious. Loving this. The
classic, pure Merlot from Chianti Classico. Drink now or hold.
$$
VINTAGE
2008
SCORE
95
CERALTI TOSCANA
SONORO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Loads of exuberant fruit with currants and blackberries with hints of licorice on the nose. Full body,
with silky tannins and a dark chocolate, dark fruit and mineral undertone. Love it. Pure
strawberries. Pure Merlot. Better after 2014.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
95
COL D'ORCIA SANT'ANTIMO
OLMAIA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Wonderful subtle perfumes of dried flowers, Indian spices and ripe fruit. Full body, with gorgeous,
classy flavors similar to the nose. The quality of tannins is superb. Drink now or hold. This is a
longtime favorite in Cabernet from the region of Brunello.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
95
FATTORIA LA TORRE
TOSCANA ESSE
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
Intense aromas of dark fruits and chili. Full body, with intense flavor of spices, berries and milk
chocolate. Goes on a long time. Gorgeous! Pure Syrah. Superb. Like the 2001. Drink or hold.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2010
SCORE
95
FONTODI COLLI DELLA
TOSCANA CENTRALE
FLACCIANELLO DELLA
PIEVE
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
A structured red with polished tannins and subtle vanilla, chocolate and currant character on the
nose and palate. Full body, with integrated tannins and a compacted palate. Builds on the palate.
Muscular and intense. Needs until 2015 to soften. Try it then.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
95
LUCE DELLA VITE TOSCANA
COUNTRY
Italy
TASTING NOTES
California Cabernet lovers are going to dig this. It's full and luscious with loads of fruit and vanilla
www.jamessuckling.com/tasting-report-top-100-new-super-tuscans-in-2012.html
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Tuscany
oak. A luxurious finish. Needs four or five years to come together. Blend of Sangiovese and Merlot.
Give it at least three or four years to mellow, but it's so delicious now.
VINTAGE
2009
$$
SCORE
95
REGION
VARIETAL
MONTEVERRO TOSCANA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
95
ORMA TOSCANA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
A dense and velvety wine with rich and wonderful currant and blackberry character. Full body, with
lots of ripe tannins and a long flavorful finish. Bordeaux blend. A relatively new winery to watch in
the future with consulting enologist Michel Rolland in service. Much better than the over-extracted
2008. Needs three or four years to polish tannins before opening.
$$
TASTING NOTES
Wow. Beautiful nose of crushed berries and coffee with hints of spices. Full body, with intense red
chili and dark fruits that follow through to a long, long finish. Very beautiful. Better in 2014.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
95
PETROLO TOSCANA
BOGGINA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Very balanced and firm with lovely texture of fine tannins and blueberry, currant character. Full
body, with silky tannins and a wonder finish. This tiny production pure Sangiovese shows richness
and power with finesse. Such focus and beauty. Hard not to drink now.
$$
VINTAGE
2010
SCORE
95
PETROLO TOSCANA
GALATRONA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Aromas of black olives, violets and fresh fruit follow through to a full body, with a dense palate of
dark fruits and olives. Long and polished. Handmade wine. You sense it. Pure Merlot sensation.
Try in 2014.
$$
VINTAGE
2010
SCORE
95
RENIERI TOSCANA RE DI
RENIERI
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Complex yet subtle aromas of licorice, minerals, blueberries and Indian spices. Full body, with
super racy tannins and a gorgeous finish. It goes on for minutes. Cabernet, Merlot and Petit
Verdot. Fantastic red. Better in 2015.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
95
RUFFINO TOSCANA MODUS
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
95
TASTING NOTES
Alluring aromas of currants and fresh herbs with hints of rose petals. Full body, with juicy tannins
and a tangy, fruity, and refreshing finish. Tar and spice undertones. A blend of Sangiovese,
Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Drink or hold.
$$
www.jamessuckling.com/tasting-report-top-100-new-super-tuscans-in-2012.html
6/18
TENUTA DELL'ORNELLAIA
TOSCANA MASSETO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Sexy and muscular. Blackberries, licorice and tar on the nose. Bark, earth, and spice as well.
Super subtle. Full-bodied, with super chewy tannins and a wonderful line. So beautiful. Creamy
tannins. A baby 2001. Try in 2016.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
95
TENUTA DI BISERNO
TOSCANA BISERNO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
Aromas of blackberries, rosemary, blueberries, and spices. Full body, with fine tannins and a racy,
clean finish. Very fine indeed. It goes on for minutes.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
95
TENUTA DI BISERNO
TOSCANA LODOVICO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
This is racy and super fine with a blueberry and mineral character with hints of sage. Full and racy
with an intense center palate of fruit and ultra-fine tannins. Fab. Better in 2014.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2008
SCORE
95
TENUTA SETTE PONTI
TOSCANA ORENO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Ripe red with plum and berry character and big velvety tannins. Full and round mouthfeel. Lots of
wood but juicy fruit carries the wine. Tuscany meets Napa. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot
and Petit Verdot. Better in 2015.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
95
ARGIANO TOSCANA
SOLENGO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
A rich red with tar, berry, mineral, and fresh herb character. Full and velvety, with polished and
caressing tannins and a flavorful finish. Layered and intense. Reminds me of the excellent 1999
Solengo. Better in 2014.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
94
RICCARDO BARACCHI
PINOT NERO TOSCANA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
This is a phenomenal wine with a purity of Pinot Noir and richness that is hard to find in Tuscany.
It's just pure fruit. Full and tannic yet fresh and bright. Goes on for minutes. Speechless. One of
the best Pinot Noirs in Italy.
$$
VINTAGE
2010
SCORE
94
CASTELLARE DI
TASTING NOTES
www.jamessuckling.com/tasting-report-top-100-new-super-tuscans-in-2012.html
7/18
CASTELLINA TOSCANA I
SODI DI S. NICCOLO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
Wonderful silky texture to this red with a beautiful currant and berry character as well. Full body,
with caressing mouthfeel. A blend of 85% Sangiovese and 15% Malvasia Nera. Better after 2013.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2008
SCORE
94
CASTELLO BANFI TOSCANA
SUMMUS
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
A wine with wonderful depth and fruit. Full body, with polished and silky tannins and an intense
finish. So much going on. Currant, flowers and light hazelnut. Beautiful now but better in 2014. The
best Summus ever. Made from 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Syrah and 25% Sangiovese.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
94
CASTELLO DI BOSSI
TOSCANA GIROLAMO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Wow. This wine shows an impressive depth of blackberries and blueberries with hints of wet earth.
Full body, with chewy yet silky tannins and a long finish. This has structure as well as opulence.
Merlot. Try in 2014.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
94
DEI TOSCANA SANCTA
CATHARINA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
A wine with lovely ripe fruits such as strawberries and cherries with hints of new wood. Full and
very velvety with a pretty balance between fruit, wood and acidity. Always excellent. Cabernet
Sauvignon. Better in 2014.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
94
DONNA OLIMPIA 1898
BOLGHERI MILLEPASSI
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Wow. Wonderful depth of fruit to this with chili powder character as well. Full body, with very fine
tannins and a long finish of currants and spices. Love the length and texture to this. Better in 2014
but so delicious and balanced now. Best wine ever from here.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
94
DUEMANI CABERNET
FRANC TOSCANA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Gorgeous aromas of currants and licorice with hints of blackberries. Full body, with fine, polished
tannins and a long, beautiful finish. Delicious and harmonious. Made from biodynamically grown
grapes. Better in 2015.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
94
DUEMANI SYRAH TOSCANA
SUISASSI
COUNTRY
TASTING NOTES
Italy
TASTING NOTES
Complex aromas of ripe fruits, mint, spices and tar follow through to a full body, with fine tannins
and a fruit, walnut and berry aftertaste. Very long and enticing. Made from biodynamically grown
www.jamessuckling.com/tasting-report-top-100-new-super-tuscans-in-2012.html
8/18
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
94
FATTORIA LE PUPILLE
MAREMMA TOSCANA
SAFFREDI
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
grapes. Drink now or hold.
$$
TASTING NOTES
Gorgeous aromas of currants and dried berries. Full body, with silky tannins and a fruity finish.
Elegant and sexy. Hazelnut, chocolate and berry undertones. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and
Merlot. Better in 2015.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
94
ISOLE E OLENA TOSCANA
CEPPARELLO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
A longtime favorite. Aromas of blueberries and flowers follow through to a full body, with soft and
silky tannins and a ripe and rich finish. Lots going on here. Give it a year or two to come together.
Pure Sangiovese. Best after 2014.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
94
JACOPO BIONDI-SANTI
TOSCANA SCHIDIONE
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
A wine with beautiful intensity of plum, blueberry and chocolate character with underlying vanilla
and spices. Full body, with fine tannins and a delicately fruity, vivid finish. A wonderful mature red
from the Maremma. Drink now.
$$
VINTAGE
2003
SCORE
94
MARCHESI DE'
FRESCOBALDI TOSCANA
GIRAMONTE
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
A harmonious wine with cherry, currant and hazelnut character. It's full-bodied, with fine tannins
and a clean finish. Polished and refined texture. Very pretty. Better in 2014.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
94
MARCHESI DE'
FRESCOBALDI TOSCANA
MORMORETO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
Powerful and beautiful aromas of ripe fruit and spices with hints of smoky meat. Full body, with soft
and silky tannins and a long and flavorful finish. Lots of licorice and red fruits on the finish. From
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. Best in 2014.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
94
PODERE POGGIO
SCALETTE ALTA VALLE
DELLA GREVE
COUNTRY
Italy
TASTING NOTES
Loads of blackberries, blueberries and hints of fresh mint. Yet subtle and intriguing. Full and
dense with a great depth of fruit and polished tannins. The wine lasts for minutes on the palate.
Great beauty. This needs at least three or four years to come together.
www.jamessuckling.com/tasting-report-top-100-new-super-tuscans-in-2012.html
9/18
REGION
Tuscany
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
94
PODERE SAPAIO BOLGHERI
SUPERIORE
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
Chili powder, dark fruits and flowers on the nose. Full body, with chewy tannins that are polished
and caressing. Very beautiful. Bordeaux blend. Needs two or three years to soften.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
94
POGGERINO TOSCANA
PRIMAMATERIA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
This is elegant and balance with fine tannins and pretty cherries and blueberries on the nose and
palate. Full body, with well-integrated tannins and a fresh finish. Pretty. Always excellent.
Sangiovese based. Better in 2014.
$$
VINTAGE
2008
SCORE
94
POGGIO AL TESORO
BOLGHERI SUPERIORE
SONDRAIA
TASTING NOTES
© 2009 - 2012 JamesSuckling.com - Wine ratings, Wine reviews, Wine tasting notes & Wine videos
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
This is a wonderful wine with orange peel, chocolate, currant and blackberries. Full and round with
velvety tannins and a long caressing finish. Very fine. Best ever. Try after 2015.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
94
RICCARDO BARACCHI
SANGIOVESE CORTONA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
Currants and blueberries with hints of minerals. Flowers too. Full body, with walnut, cocoa powder
and fruit. Solid wine. Beautiful pure fruit. Give it three to four years to soften.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2010
SCORE
94
SAN FELICE TOSCANA
VIGORELLO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Beautiful Cabernet Sauvignon coming through here with blackberries and currants with hints of
fresh herbs and minerals. Full body, with integrated tannins and a silky finish. Gorgeous. Better
after 2014. Bordeaux blend.
$$
VINTAGE
2008
SCORE
94
TENIMENTI LUIGI
D'ALESSANDRO SYRAH
CORTONA IL BOSCO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
Complex aromas of dried meat, pancetta and dark fruits follow through to a full body, with fine
tannins and lots of subtle fruit. Nutty and minerally at the finish. I like the style and different
character in this young wine. Better in 2014.
$$
www.jamessuckling.com/tasting-report-top-100-new-super-tuscans-in-2012.html
10/18
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
94
TENUTA DI BISERNO
TOSCANA BISERNO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
This is very sexy with decadent meat, berries and spices. Cooked rhubarb. Hints of cocoa. Full
body, with a racy and intense mid-palate. Racy and balanced. Long, long finish. Just coming
around now.
$$
VINTAGE
2008
SCORE
94
TUA RITA TOSCANA
GIUSTO DI NOTRI
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
Very beautiful aromas of crushed currants and blackberries. Full body, with lots of silky tannins
and a long fresh finish. Focused and balanced. Cabernet Sauvignon blend. Better after 2014.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2010
SCORE
94
VITICCIO TOSCANA MONILE
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
94
VITICCIO TOSCANA
PRUNAIO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Lots of currants and mint character on the nose suggest lots of ripe Cabernet Sauvignon in the
blend. Full body, with super well-integrated tannins and a fresh, clean and direct finish. Turns a
little austere, but long and enticing. Better in 2015.
$$
TASTING NOTES
A red with a dense palate of ripe plum and raspberry fruit as well as currants. Fulll and soft with
very velvety tannins that melt in to the wine. Nuts, chocolate and fruit unfold on the finish. Better in
2014.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
94
AMPELEIA MAREMMA
TOSCANA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
Pretty aromas of sliced plums and nectarines follow through to a full body, with very fine tannins
and a delicious finish. Very fine and polished tannins. Made from organic grapes. Drink now.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
93
ANTICO PODERE GAGLIOLE
COLLI DELLA TOSCANA
CENTRALE
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
A wine with full body and lots of fruit and spices. Hints of chocolate and walnuts. So juicy and
delicious. Wonderful balance. Blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now or hold.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2010
SCORE
93
www.jamessuckling.com/tasting-report-top-100-new-super-tuscans-in-2012.html
11/18
ANTINORI TOSCANA
TIGNANELLO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Dried fruits and flowers on the nose. More roses than anything else. Full body, with light toffee,
coffee and ginseng character. Light prunes too. Really enjoyable. A blend of Sangiovese and
Cabernet Sauvignon. Give it a year or two to soften.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
93
ARCENO TOSCANA
VALDORNA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Lots of ripe fruit and spices here with hints of dark berries and subtle smoked meat. Full and
caressingly textured with a long finish. So delicious now but will improve with bottle age. A blend of
64% Merlot, 31% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon.
$$
VINTAGE
2007
SCORE
93
ARGENTIERA BOLGHERI
SUPERIORE
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Very pretty balance to this wine. Blackberry and cocoa powder with some vanilla bean. Full body,
with polished, dusty tannins and a juicy finish. Lots of licorice and dark fruits. Needs time to soften.
Try in three or four years.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
93
ARGIANO TOSCANA NON
CONFUNDITOR
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
This is really beautiful and balanced with refined tannins and a focused, beautiful ripe cherry and
raspberry fruit. Long and super silky. Better in 2014 but so delicious now. Best NG ever from
Argiano.
$$
VINTAGE
2010
SCORE
93
BATZELLA BOLGHERI
SUPERIORE TAM
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
A focused and alluring red with very fine tannins and complex licorice, currant and light mint
character. Full and tailored. A blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Cabernet Franc. Drink
now but better in 2014.
$$
VINTAGE
2008
SCORE
93
BELLINI TOSCANA COMEDIA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
A wine with loads of spicy fruit, chocolate and berry character. Full and beautiful. Velvety and
balanced. Layered. Better in 2014.
$$
VINTAGE
2008
SCORE
93
BRANCAIA MAREMMA
TASTING NOTES
www.jamessuckling.com/tasting-report-top-100-new-super-tuscans-in-2012.html
12/18
TOSCANA ILATRAIA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2010
SCORE
93
GAJA CA' MARCANDA
BOLGHERI CA' MARCANDA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
Lots of dark licorice and blueberries on the nose. Full body, with ultra-fine tannins and a long, long
finish. This is whole and balanced. Best in 2013, but who can wait? A blend of Cabernet
Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc.
$$
TASTING NOTES
Aromas of currants and blueberries with shades of bark and tea. Full body, with velvety tannins
and a juicy aftertaste. Chocolate, cocoa and green tea. Very pretty. Drink now or hold.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
93
CAMPO AL MARE BOLGHERI
SUPERIORE BAIA AL VENTO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Aromas of sweet tobacco and prunes with hints of coffee. Full body, with soft tannins and a
chocolate, coffee and berry aftertaste. This is delicious now but will improve with three to four
years of bottle age.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
93
CAPEZZANA TOSCANA
GHIAIE DELLA FURBA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
Very attractive red with blueberry and hints of vanilla that follow through to a full body, with fine
tannins and a silky finish. Very fine indeed. Drink now or hold. But better in two or three years.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2007
SCORE
93
CASA DI TERRA BOLGHERI
MOSAICO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
Aromas of blueberries with chili and other spices. Full and chewy with polished tannins and an
intense finish. Powerful young wine yet balanced and very pretty. A blend of Merlot, Cabernet
Franc, and Petit Verdot. Better in 2015.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
93
CASTELLO BANFI TOSCANA
EXCELSUS
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Aromas and flavors of prunes, fresh herbs and tobacco follow through to a full body, with velvety
tannins and milk chocolate and fruit aftertaste. Made from 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet
Sauvignon. Drink or hold.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
93
CASTELLO DEL TERRICCIO
TOSCANA
COUNTRY
TASTING NOTES
Italy
TASTING NOTES
Wonderful nose of hazelnuts, dark berries and blackberries. Full body, with super silky tannins and
a long, long finish. This is classy and refined. Better in two or three years.
www.jamessuckling.com/tasting-report-top-100-new-super-tuscans-in-2012.html
13/18
REGION
Tuscany
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2008
SCORE
93
CASTELLO DELLA
PANERETTA TOSCANA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Plenty of character here. Lots of dried berry and peaches on the nose and palate. Full and juicy
with rough tannins and a fresh, juicy finish. From Sangiovese and Canaiolo. Just right now. Better
in 2013.
$$
VINTAGE
2006
SCORE
93
CASTELLO DI BOLGHERI
BOLGHERI SUPERIORE
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
I like the aromas of walnuts and blackberries with hints of coffee beans. Full body, with soft and
velvety tannins and a delicious sweet berry aftertaste. Delicious now. But will improve with age in
the bottle.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
93
CASTELLO DI BOSSI
TOSCANA CORBAIA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
The currants and fresh herb aromas here are captivating. The wine is full-bodied, with integrated
tannins and a berry, vanilla and spice aftertaste. Lots of new wood showing on the finish but will
melt together at the end with a little bottle age. Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon. Try in 2014.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
93
CASTELLO DI QUERCETO
COLLI DELLA TOSCANA
CENTRALE IL SOLE DI
ALLESSANDRO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
Chewy and rich wine with currant, berry and lemon peel character. Ripe yet reserved tannins. I like
the grip and tension to this. Pure Cabernet Sauvignon. Give it at least two or three years in the
bottle to soften.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2008
SCORE
93
CASTELLO DI QUERCETO
TOSCANA LA CORTE
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
A long time favorite. Blackberries and chocolate on the nose follow through to a full body, with soft
and round tannins and a long flavorful finish. Delicious now.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2008
SCORE
93
CASTELLO ROMITORIO
SANT'ANTIMO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
Dried fruits with plums and cherries. Full body, with round tannins and a long fruity finish. So much
dark fruits and minerals here. 60% Sangiovese, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 20% Canaiolo.
Better in 2013.
www.jamessuckling.com/tasting-report-top-100-new-super-tuscans-in-2012.html
14/18
VARIETAL
$$
VINTAGE
2007
SCORE
93
CASTELVECCHIO TOSCANA
IL BRECCIOLINO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Fascinating aromas of sliced plums, dried chili peppers and bark follow through to a full body, with
lots of chewy tannins and new toasted oak with a powerful finish. Needs at least until 2015 to
soften and come together.
$$
VINTAGE
2008
SCORE
93
COLLAZZI TOSCANA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
93
DIADEMA TOSCANA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
A wine with velvety tannins and ripe fruit with hints of tobacco and cedar box. Full and caressing.
Always a solid and flavorful red. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc.
Better in 2013.
$$
TASTING NOTES
Very floral with lavender and rose aromas. Full body, with silky tannins and a beautiful core of
sweet fruit. Lots of new wood. Drink now.
$$
VINTAGE
2010
SCORE
93
DONNA OLIMPIA 1898
BOLGHERI SUPERIORE
MILLEPASSI
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
Love the rosemary and cocoa character with the currant and citrus character. Full and silky with a
fine texture and a long finish. Very pretty indeed. Hard not to pull the cork now but better in 2013.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2007
SCORE
93
FABRIZIO DIONISIO
CORTONA SYRAH
CUCULAIA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
Aromas of plums and sweet tobacco with hints of smoked meat. Full body, with soft and silky
tannins and a focused milk chocolate, chili powder and light lemon grass aftertaste. The bright
acidity combines well with the ripe fruit. Drink or hold.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
93
FATTORIA POGGIOPIANO
TOSCANA ROSSO DI SERA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
A wine with blueberry and spice on the nose and palate. Full and juicy with very pretty tannins and
a long, long finish. Gorgeous. Drink now or hold.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
93
www.jamessuckling.com/tasting-report-top-100-new-super-tuscans-in-2012.html
15/18
FATTORIA SCOPONE
TOSCANA IL BAGATTO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Big and chewy with slightly angular tannins, but beautiful fruit intensity in the bottle with hazelnuts
and currants. Long and flavorful. Better in 2013. A blend of Cabernet, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and
Sangiovese.
$$
VINTAGE
2007
SCORE
93
FELSINA TOSCANA
FONTALLORO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
Soft and juicy with chocolate and berry character and hints of currants. Full body, with delicate
velvety tannins and an intense finish. Very approachable but will be much better in years to come.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
93
FELSINA TOSCANA
MASTRO RARO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
Velvety and fruity wine with smoky, dried berry and cigar box character. Full body with ripe tannins
and a long finish. Held together nicely. Pure Cabernet Sauvignon. Best after 2013.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
93
G.A. ROSSI DI MEDELANA
TOSCANA LUPICAIA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
Rich aromas of blackberries and red chili pepper. Full body, with polished tannins and lightly
chewy. Long finish. Name changed from Tenuta del Terriccio. Better in 2014.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
93
I GIUSTI & ZANZA TOSCANA
DULCAMARA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
Very beautiful and well-crafted with currants, flowers and blueberries on the nose and palate. It's
full and polished with velvety textured tannins and a fresh finish. Try after 2014.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
93
I GIUSTI & ZANZA TOSCANA
NEMORINO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
Love the aromas of dried fruits and Indian spices. Full body, with silky tannin and a long and
wonderful finish. Shows depth and a lot of class. Already beautiful and balanced. Very savory.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2010
SCORE
93
www.jamessuckling.com/tasting-report-top-100-new-super-tuscans-in-2012.html
16/18
IL BORRO TOSCANA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
93
IL PALAGIO TOSCANA
CASINO DELLA VIE
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Aromas of fresh herbs, light grilled meat, and currant bush follow through to a full body, with fine
yet chewy tannins and a slightly mouth-puckering finish. Needs time to soften. Juicy and savory
finish. Try in 2015.
$$
TASTING NOTES
Aromas of mint, spice and blueberries turn to currants. Full body, with dense palate of almost
jammy fruit, but then turns soft and fresh. From Sting and Trudie Styler. Made from biodynamic
grapes. So drinkable now but better in 2014.
$$
VINTAGE
2010
SCORE
93
IL PALAGIO TOSCANA
SISTER MOON
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Soft and velvety with berry and milk chocolate character with a walnut undertone. Full and
delicious. Dense and yummy. A blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Made from
biodynamic grapes. Drink now or hold.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
93
ISOLE E OLENA CABERNET
SAUVIGNON TOSCANA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
TASTING NOTES
Plums and walnuts on the nose. Full body, with cocoa and dried fruits that follow through to a long
finish. Attractive currant undertone. Juicy and delicious already. Better in two years.
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2006
SCORE
93
ISOLE E OLENA SYRAH
TOSCANA
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
Interesting aromas of tar, blueberries and grilled meat follow through to a full body, with soft
tannins and a sweet berry and citrus background on the palate. Wonderful drinkability to this.
Drink now or hold.
$$
VINTAGE
2007
SCORE
93
LE MACCHIOLE TOSCANA
PALEO
COUNTRY
Italy
REGION
Tuscany
VARIETAL
TASTING NOTES
Rose bush and plums follow through to full body, with fine tannins and a fresh clean finish.
Impressive line to this wine. Pure Cabernet Franc. Give it a year or two to come together better
and soften.
$$
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
93
LE MACCHIOLE TOSCANA
SCRIO
COUNTRY
TASTING NOTES
Italy
TASTING NOTES
Currant bush and blueberry aromas follow through to a full to medium body, with medium tannins
and a chocolate, berry and vanilla bean after taste. Syrah. Better in 2014.
www.jamessuckling.com/tasting-report-top-100-new-super-tuscans-in-2012.html
17/18
REGION
Tuscany
$$
VARIETAL
VINTAGE
2009
SCORE
93
LEAVE COMMENT
SUBMIT
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18/18