Admiring the classics, when we think of premium Italian red wines, the first 2 categories to come to mind are those of Tuscany and Piedmont (Piemonte). So in this set of very fine vino rosso we feature the following superb choices from these 2 legendary wine regions:
1. Casanuova delle Cerbaie, Brunello di Montalcino 2016, $57.99
Made from 100% Sangiovese Grosso, Brunello has the longest aging requirement (5 years) of any Italian wine. This model by Casanuova delle Cerbaie also happens to be from one of the best vintages (2016) of the last 20 years! The wine's classic Sangiovese aromas of juicy cherry, wild red berry, dried herbs, violets and savory balsamic lift nicely from the glass. These aromas carry forward to the palate and are joined by orange zest and Allspice. The wine is full bodied, drinking exceptionally well now and can age gracefully for another 8 years.
2. Renato Ratti "Ochetti", Nebbiolo, Langhe, 2020 $21.99
Langhe Nebbiolos are not quite as full bodied and tannic as their cousins from Barolo and Barbaresco. They are also not nearly as expensive, and offer a great Nebbiolo experience in a wine that doesn't need to age nearly as long to show its best. This charming wine from one of Piemonte's best producers is delicate but intense. Aromas of strawberries and raspberries pop from the glass and are joined by floral and forest floor notes. Light-medium bodied, the wine has great acidity and a very long finish.
