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. Casanova di Neri "Tenuta Nuova", Brunello di Montalcino 2018, $59.99
Made from 100% Sangiovese Grosso, Brunello has the longest aging requirement (5 years) of any Italian wine. This year's gift set Brunello is an absolute bargain. Normally $134.99 on its own, we are selling the bottle itself for $59.99 in the shop, and combined with the Ratti Nebbiolo in this set, it's a pretty incredible deal for $79.99 total! The wine's classic Sangiovese aromas of juicy cherry, wild red berry, dried herbs, wet clay, violets and savory balsamic lift nicely from the glass. These aromas carry forward to the palate and are joined by orange zest, black plum, and spice. 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.
