Wine With Wanda

A Tuscan Dream Come True: The Wines of Rocca delle Macìe

When I first met Sergio Zingarelli, President of Rocca delle Macìe winery, in November 2019, there was no crystal ball around to warn us that we were living in the good old days: life before the Covid-19 pandemic. Sitting around a table at a Manhattan restaurant, our group of wine professionals didn’t know that global turmoil was just around the corner. Still, we instinctively laughed and savored each sip of his family’s wines because it was clearly a moment to treasure. Thank goodness for those memories. They were a sustaining force during the endless days of social distancing when it seemed like sitting side-by-side in enclosed spaces was destined for the history books.

It's hard to believe that almost 3 years had passed since my first tasting with Sergio Zingerelli. 

Well, don’t count out the human spirit, especially when paired with the power of science. Now that most of the world is vaccinated and boosted, the situation has vastly improved. And because of this progress, in September 2022, almost three years since our first tasting, I had the pleasure of meeting with Sergio again for a vertical tasting of the 2010 -2018 vintages of his eponymous Sergio Zingarelli Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG. Impeccably tailored and with the manners to match, Sergio is rightfully proud of what his family has accomplished in the world of wine.

Many wineries have an intriguing backstory, but the story of Rocca delle Macìe is genuinely cinematic. Sergio’s father, Italo Zingarelli, led a colorful life worthy of a biopic: He had a brief career as a boxer before transitioning to work in film as an extra and stuntman. That opened the door for the elder Zingarelli’s impressive career as a film producer, and director of popular “Spaghetti Western” films, including They Call Me Trinity and Trinity Is Still My Name. Italo’s success in the film industry enabled him to fulfill his dream of owning a wine estate in Tuscany. “And so, in 1973, in contrast to all those who at the time were fleeing the countryside to work in the city, he purchased a rundown 14th-century borgo in Castellina in Chianti and set about painstakingly restoring the buildings, thus giving rise to the Rocca delle Macìe winery,” said Sergio.

In 1984, Sergio joined his father at Rocca delle Macíe and worked his way up to his current leading man role of President. Italo passed away in 2000 but remains a source of inspiration for Sergio and his siblings: “My father managed to infuse me, my brother Fabio, and my sister Sandra with his great passion for Tuscany and for the art of winemaking, as well as with the desire and enthusiasm to continue writing the never-ending story that binds the art of wine-making to the life of man.”

Sitting across the table from Sergio and knowing the story of his family certainly adds more texture, nuance, and energy to the tasting experience. But the wines stand on their own. Elegant with a freshness that endures even in older vintages, they are a sippable and sophisticated snapshot of time and place.

Our tasting focused on the single-vineyard Sergio Zingarelli Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG. Sergio told me that the vineyard is visible from his kitchen window. Representing the top tier of the Chianti Classico pyramid, Gran Selezione is a relatively new category introduced in 2014. It has secured its position as a stellar and age-worthy expression of Sangiovese.

Like a well-made movie, the story of Rocca delle Macìe has many layers -- passion, creativity, family, and true grit. And the wines capture this complexity in an energetic and elegant style. And who doesn’t love a happy ending where dreams come true?

Tasting Notes

The 2015 and 2016 vintages of Sergio Zingarelli Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG are currently available in the US marketplace and sell for about $100 per bottle. The 2017 vintage is coming soon, and 2018 should reach American shores in 2023.

2015 and 2016 were both exceptional vintages in Chianti Classico. Both Sergio Zingarelli wines are 100% Sangiovese with impressive balance and freshness. I found 2015 a bit more opulent and luscious than 2016 – rich and round with pops of spice; it reverberates on the palate like an opera diva with precision and passion. 2016 is slightly more restrained and less va va voom. A bit shy in the beginning, its bright and rich flavors open beautifully in the glass. 2017 was a hotter vintage, and although the ripeness of the fruit is more pronounced, it is not jammy -- the freshness is still there. I did get a sneak peek of 2018; it is still a baby by Gran Selezione standards, but the structure and freshness are promising signs.

And, if you’re looking for a refreshing white wine with character, I recommend their 2021 Campo Maccione Vermentino ($16) from Rocca delle Macìe’s estate in Tuscany’s coastal Maremma region. A subtly salty kiss of the sea meshes perfectly with its flavors of white peach, lemon, and a pop of pineapple.

The Innovative, Elegant, and Biodynamic Beauty of Querciabella Wines from Tuscany

Manfred Ing, Winemaker, Querciabella

Hopping a flight overseas remains a daydream during these long days of social distancing, but thankfully traveling the world through wine is a reality. Recently, I took a virtual journey to beautiful Tuscany through the wines of Querciabella with winemaker Manfred Ing. Watch our Instagram Live conversation on IGTV, YouTube, or by clicking the video below. 

Founded in 1974 with a single hectare vineyard in Tuscany, today Querciabella has more than 100 hectares in Chianti Classico and Maremma. In 1988, Querciabella converted to organic viticulture and in 2000 they introduced a 100% plant‑based approach to biodynamics that forbids the use of animal products in their vineyards or cellars. During our conversation, Manfred shared Querciabella's winemaking philosophy, a definition of biodynamic winemaking, and his fascinating journey from his native South Africa to becoming a winemaker in Tuscany.


We tasted two Querciabella wines: Chianti Classico 2017 ($30) and Camartina 2015 ($150). A very classic and pure expression of Chianti Classico, the Sangiovese grapes were sourced from Greve in Chianti, Radda in Chianti, and Gaiole in Chianti. This tapestry of grapes from unique terroirs adds complexity and nuance to this very fresh and pretty wine. Camartina has been the estate's signature Super Tuscan since 1981. A blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Sangiovese, it is only produced in the best vintages. Rich and balanced, Camartina will age beautifully; a worthy splurge. 

900 Years Old and Still Going Strong: Ricasoli 1141 Continues to Innovate in Chianti Classico

Francesco Ricasoli
President & Owner, Ricasoli 1141
32nd Baron of Brolio

When your family's winemaking history can be traced back to 1141, the family tree is bound to have some exciting twists and turns. In my recent Instagram Live chat with Francesco Ricasoli, we dug into the roots of his family's iconic winery, Ricasoli 1141. Not only are they Italy's oldest winery, Ricasoli 1141 is the fourth oldest family business in the world. The family tree includes Baron Bettino Ricasoli; not only did he serve twice as the Prime Minister of Italy and play a prominent role in its unification in 1861, but in 1872 he also developed the original formula for the wine we know today as Chianti Classico. 

 When travel is possible and prudent again, consider a visit to Castello di Brolio. Guests can enjoy wine tastings, guided tours of the cellar and vineyards, and meals at Osteria di Brolio. 

Located in the heart of Tuscany's Chianti Classico region, in Gaiole in Chianti, Ricasoli's Castello di Brolio (Brolio Castle) sits majestically on 3,000 hilltop acres. 600 acres of the estate are planted to sustainably farmed vineyards, making it the largest estate in Chianti Classico under vine. In 1993, Francesco Ricasoli, 32nd Baron of Brolio, purchased back the family business after more than 20 years of foreign ownership. His innovation and determination have enabled Ricasoli to reclaim their former glory and take their wine to new heights. By spearheading a total renovation and re-mapping of the vineyards, Baron Ricasoli was able to reveal how Sangiovese grapes display distinct qualities depending on soil type and altitude. This valuable information enables Ricasoli 1141 to produce a broad range of Chianti Classico wines that are true depictions of terroir.  

During our chat, we discussed Ricasoli 1141's past, present, and future while sipping Castello di Brolio Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2015 ($70) and Casalferro Merlot 2008 ($70). Watch the video above, on IGTV, or YouTube to learn more, including Ricasoli's tasting notes and wine pet peeves. 


Castello di Brolio Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2015 ($70)
Representing the top tier of the Chianti Classico quality pyramid, Ricasoli 1141 only produces Gran Selezione in the best vintages. A blend of Sangiovese (90%), Cabernet Sauvignon (5%), and Petit Verdot (5%), this is a robust but graceful expression of Chianti Classico. Beautifully balanced with a long finish.  

Only produced in the best vintages, Casalferro Merlot 2008 ($70) is a single-vineyard Merlot. The grapes were planted in a former Sangiovese vineyard, leading Barone Ricasoli to describe the Merlot as "Chiantified." This is not an overly plummy Merlot, it is quite complex with a balanced interplay between fruit and minerality with a hint of spice. Rich but so very vibrant and fresh at 8 years old! 

It Started in Florence: How Tenuta di Lilliano Chianti Classico Came Into My Life

Alessandro Ruspoli represents his family's winery, Tenuta di Lilliano, around the world. 

It was a chilly night in Florence when our dinner hosts, politely yet firmly, nudged a giddy entourage of wine professionals into taxis after a Chianti Classico fueled dinner. Dinner had sashayed past the scheduled time, but in Italy you don't rush good wine and good conversation. Tucked into a tiny taxi with two dapper Italian gentlemen, our small talk took an interesting turn when the eldest, an internationally renowned Italian wine expert, admonished me and exclaimed, “How could you not know Tenuta di Lilliano? They are one of the most important wineries in Chianti Classico!” And that is how I met, Alessandro Ruspoli.

A few months later, I discovered that the outspoken gentleman in Florence wasn’t the only ardent fan of Alessandro and his family’s wines. When I received an invitation from wine marketing guru Tony DiDio to join him and Alessandro for dinner, I immediately said yes. So on a rainy night in Manhattan, in the cozy environs of Casa Apicci, I finally had the chance for a proper Tenuta di Lilliano tasting and conversation with Alessandro.

Easygoing and good-humored, Alessandro is endearingly down-to-earth for someone who hails from an ancient aristocratic family whose history in Tuscany can be traced back to the Renaissance. Their roots in Rome go back to the 17^th century and the family still resides in the historic Ruspoli palace in the heart of the Eternal City. Princess Eleonora Ruspoli Berlingieri was the first to recognize the winemaking potential of their Tuscan estate and began bottling Lilliano’s wines in 1958. And yes, that crest on the bottle is the real deal; it bears the coats of arms of the Ruspoli and Berlingieri families.


image courtesy of Tenuta di Lilliano

But it takes more than a rich history and an aristocratic lineage to make good wine. At the end of the day, the wine has to speak for itself. I’ve made no secret of my affection for Chianti Classico and Tenuta di Lilliano’s wines are impressive. When I taste a glass of Chianti Classico, I want to encounter an authentic expression of Sangiovese that is true to the character of the grape, transmits the essence of terroir, and displays winemaking that is precise but not over-manipulated. Tenuta di Lilliano meets that threshold.

If you’re looking for beautiful red wines to share with friends and family this holiday season, and all year round, give Tenuta di Lilliano a swirl. Elegant and enjoyable, their Chianti Classico wines have the sophistication needed to impress wine snobs, but they are also approachable for wine rookies. Very food-friendly, they pair brilliantly with a wide variety of foods, including pasta, poultry, red meat, and cheeses.


Tenuta di Lilliano Chianti Classico DOCG 2016 ($20)
A blend of Sangiovese (90%) with kisses of Colorino (5%) and Merlot (5%), it is fresh and supple with a hint of spice to rev up those classic red cherry flavors of Sangiovese.



Tenuta di Lilliano Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 2015 ($32)
100% Sangiovese, 2015 was an exceptional vintage in Chianti Classico and you can taste those ideal conditions in this captivating vino. With a beautiful balance between freshness and structure, this sip is quite appealing now and has great aging potential. 


 
Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG 2015 ($36)
Gran Selezione represents the very top of the Chianti Classico quality pyramid and this is a worthy member of that elite club. A blend of Sangiovese (90%), Colorino (5%), and Merlot (5%), intermingled with rich and round fruit flavors are sassy savory notes of licorice and herbs. Lively acidity and tangible minerality round out this elegant composition.

image courtesy of Tenuta di Lilliano

If you’re planning a trip to Tuscany, Tenuta di Lilliano welcomes guests. Just a 45-minute drive from Florence, in addition to tastings they have luxury villas and apartments available for rent.

Terroir, Tradition, and a Touch of Magic: There's Something Special About Ricasoli Chianti Classico

Massimiliano Biagi (Agronomist and Technical Director) and Francesco Ricasoli (President and Owner of Ricasoli and 32nd Baron of Brolio)

It takes a person with extraordinary passion, patience, and determination to buy back their family’s business almost 20 years after it had been sold to a foreign entity. Baron Francesco Ricasoli is such a person. The Ricasoli family has been linked to wine since 1141 and they are documented as the oldest winery in Italy and the fourth oldest family business in the world. When Francesco regained ownership of their winery in 1993, he was also reclaiming Ricasoli’s esteemed position as a producer of superb Italian wines. After all, it was his great-grandfather, politician and wine visionary Bettino Ricasoli, that is credited for developing the signature Chianti blend, now called Chianti Classico. 

image courtesy of Ricasoli

Their Brolio Castle, located within the town limits of Gaiole in Chianti, sits majestically on their 3000-acre estate. 600 acres of the estate are planted to vineyards, making it the largest estate in Chianti Classico under vine. There are also 60 acres of olive groves.


In a recent tasting of Ricasoli wines, led by Francesco and the estate’s agronomist and technical director Massimiliano Biagi, I was impressed not only by the excellent quality of the wines but the diverse range of expression. Francesco described “Brolio as a magical place” and you can taste that special essence in the wines. One of the secrets to that magic is the estate’s many soil types and micro-climates.


It is also a bit magical that Francesco and Massimiliano are working together. As a little boy, Massimiliano played in front of Brolio Castle and never imagined that one day he would play such a pivotal role in creating Ricasoli’s celebrated wines.

image courtesy of Ricasoli

Ricasoli has devoted tremendous time and resources to studying the nuances of each unique zone and crafting wines that authentically express that specific terroir. They have identified 19 different soil types and all of Ricasoli’s vineyards are on hills, with altitudes ranging from about 600 to 1600 feet.

It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of Chianti Classico and Ricasoli is certainly in the top tier of quality producers. I recommend getting to know their wines with these 5 wines from 2015 and 2016, vintages that Francesco described as magical for their exceptional quality.

Ricasoli Brolio Chianti Classico DOCG 2016 ($22)
This crisp and juicy blend of Sangiovese (80%), Merlot (15%), and Cabernet Sauvignon (5%), is a charming introduction to the Ricasoli style. Aged for 9 months in tonneaux (large barrels), its fresh red fruit flavors, perky acidity, and smooth tannins make this an approachable but elegant expression of Chianti Classico. 



Ricasoli Brolio Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 2016 ($30)
The Riserva has the same blend, proportions, and vintage as the Chianti Classico but was aged twice as long and spent 18 months in tonneaux. It is a bit more robust and complex hints of spice add verve to crisp and rich flavors of wild red fruit and black cherry.

Gran Selezione
Gran Selezione represents the very top tier of the Chianti Classico quality pyramid and Ricasoli produces different selections from different vineyard plots. Tasting them side by side is an excellent way to understand the impact of soil type on a wine’s flavor profile.


Ricasoli Colledilá Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG 2015 ($70)
A single vineyard wine, the Sangiovese grapes for Colledilá grow in soil that is very stony and rich in calcium -- one of the most representative types found in Chianti Classico. Aged for 18 months in tonneaux, Colledilà is described as “full with aromas of violet and iris coupled with ripe red fruits followed by hints of pepper and a whisper of white chocolate which give way to a full, velvety mouthfeel with soft tannins.” It also has an intense minerality and savory thread that is quite seductive.  

Ricasoli Roncione Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG 2015 ($85)
The soils of the Roncione vineyard contain mineral deposits from the Pliocene era. The official tasting notes describe Roncione as “intense ruby red color with garnet hues. Complex on the nose, with aromas of iris, violet and soft oaky notes. Sapid to taste, excellent acidity, which gives this Cru character and elegance. Robust finish, and aftertaste that reflects the aromas. A great expression of the Brolio marine deposit terroir.” 100% Sangiovese, Roncione’s red fruit flavors are intense and concentrated but a hint of salinity adds an energetic freshness that is quite intriguing.

Ricasoli CeniPrimo Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG 2015 ($85)
The Sangiovese grapes for CeniPrimo grow on the great valley of the River Arbia. The soil, which originates from an ancient river terrace dating back to the Pliocence-Pleistocene eras, is quite distinct and complex with some silty deposits, clay, and limestone. CeniPrimo is 100% Sangiovese and described as an “Intense ruby red color with slight garnet hues. Red fruits and delicate balsamic notes. Begins soft in the mouth, velvety and voluminous. The tannin is embracing, elegant and perfectly balanced with the acidity. A long, persistent finish, with character: an unique expression of Brolio’s ancient fluvial terrace.” Robust but not overwhelming, CeniPrimo has impeccable balance and energy.

Osteria di Brolio
image courtesy of Ricasoli

 If you’re planning a visit to Tuscany, Brolio Castle is one of the most celebrated destinations in wine country. Welcoming almost 50,000 visitors per year, guests can enjoy wine tastings, guided tours of the cellar and vineyards, and meals at Osteria di Brolio.


image courtesy of Ricasoli

You can also book an overnight stay at their charmingly restored 18th century farmhouse, Agriturismo Agresto. Located on a hill southwest of Brolio Castle, it is surrounded by vineyards. 

Bet on the Black Rooster: Drink More Chianti Classico!

Have you ever noticed the snazzy Black Rooster motif on a bottle of Chianti Classico? More than just a trademark, the bold logo has a rich history that dates back to medieval times. Legend has it that the crafty use of a hungry black rooster as an alarm clock gave Florence an advantage over Siena in an ongoing turf war for the Chianti region. Poultry prevailed and almost all of Chianti became part of the Republic of Florence.  


No actual roosters were sighted on my recent visit to Florence but the Gallo Nero logo was proudly displayed when I attended Chianti Classico Collection 2019, the annual grand tasting. From iconic wineries to newer players, almost 200 Chianti Classico producers, with more than 700 labels, showcased the fermented fruits of their labor at the stunning Stazione Leopolda, a former train station. Wine trade from around the globe descended upon Florence to swirl, sip, schmooze, and voice their opinion.

My verdict: Chianti Classico is better than ever. The level of quality, consistency, and sheer drinkability is at an all-time high. From annata (vintage) to Riserva to Gran Selezione, I was blown away by the stellar quality represented by every tier of the Chianti Classico pyramid. Chatting with the producers, it became abundantly clear that they have invested tremendous energy and resources in elevating the quality of their wines. Each winemaker I met was passionate about crafting wines that authentically represent their land and offer a pure expression of Sangiovese; the grape that is the foundation of Chianti Classico.


map courtesy of Consorzio Vino Chianti Classico 

It is important to note that Chianti Classico is not a monolith and its 177,500 acres are composed of several sub-appellations. According to the Consorzio Vino Chianti Classico, these include the entire territories of the municipalities of Castellina in Chianti, Gaiole in Chianti, Greve in Chianti and Radda in Chianti and parts of Barberino Tavarnelle, Castelnuovo Berardenga, Poggibonsi, and San Casciano Val di Pesa. These aren’t just geographical distinctions; the micro-climates and soil types of each region have an impact on the wine’s attributes. It is also extremely important to always remember that although Chianti Classico and Chianti are both Sangiovese based wines, they are two distinct DOCG's with different production regulations and zones.

To take Chianti Classico for granted is a huge mistake. Maybe it’s not the hot and trendy new wine region but Chianti Classico is not stagnant. It does not embrace tradition at the expense of innovation; Chianti Classico excels at both. For example, the 2013 introduction of Gran Selezione to the very top of the quality pyramid is reserved exclusively for Chianti Classico produced from the finest grapes from a single vineyard and these wines must be aged a minimum of 30 months, including 3 months in bottle. The quality of these wines is exceptional. 

Yes, these technical details of winemaking are important but during my time at the Chianti Classico Collection 2019 I was also impressed and enchanted by the people that I met. The level of camaraderie between the winemakers and their mutual respect for one another reminded me that competitors don’t have to be enemies. More than once, I heard a winemaker sing the praises of another and they would encourage me to taste the wines of their peers too, sometimes even walking me to their table. That’s genuine camaraderie and further proof that wine really is a bridge that brings people together.

Maybe you haven’t had Chianti Classico in a while -- now is the time to get reacquainted. Many of the wines are affordably priced and stellar quality can be found at all levels. So the next time you’re looking for a great bottle of wine to share with friends, I encourage you to choose a bottle of Chianti Classico. It’s impossible for me to highlight every producer but here are four of the fabulous people that I chatted with in Florence. Two of the wineries were familiar to me, and two were new discoveries, but they all make fantastic Chianti Classico.

Forgive me for sounding like a broken record; nearly every time that I’ve written about 4th generation wine producer Andrea Cecchi I’ve described him as the quintessential Tuscan gentleman. He is. I’ve had the pleasure of tasting wine with Andrea on his visits to NYC but seeing him in Florence was pure joy! The Cecchi family’s elegant wines represent the beautiful diversity of Chianti Classico. After all, they do have more than 125 years of winemaking experience; Sangiovese runs in their veins! I’m a big fan of their Cecchi Valore di Famiglia Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG 2015 ($59.99) from their estate in Castellina in Chianti.100% Sangiovese, it is velvety and vibrant with exemplary purity and balance.


It wouldn’t be exaggerating to say that from the moment I arrived in Florence, I wandered around searching for Luigi Cappellini. I first met Luigi in 2016 when he and his lovely wife Silvia hosted a tasting of their wines in New York City. I was instantly enchanted by their warm personalities and beautiful wines. In 1958, the Cappellini family acquired this historic estate in Greve in Chianti that once belonged to the family of famed explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano. Castello di Verrazzano is a founding member of the Consorzio Vino Chianti Classico and the estate is certified organic. Try their Chianti Classico DOCG 2016 ($26). A beautiful expression of a classic Chianti Classico, it has power and finesse. 

Guido Carissimo, the founder of Carus kept me laughing when I stopped by his table in Florence. But make no mistake, Guido is very serious about his wines. Guido founded Carus in the mid 1990’s and is committed to producing terroir-driven wines with care and creativity. Located in San Casciano in Val di Pesa, their olive groves and grape vineyards are organically farmed. Their Baldéro Chianti Classico DOCG 2013 ($20) is mostly Sangiovese with a small amount of Merlot. Aged almost entirely in stainless steel, this snappy red is impressively crisp and fresh.

One of the many things that I love about winemaking is that it is often a multi-generational family affair. Gregorio Boscu Bianchi Bandinelli and his father Andrea were working side by side at the Chianti Classico Collection 2019 to share their family’s Villa di Geggiano wines. Villa di Geggiano has been the family home and winery of the Bianchi Bandinelli family since 1527. Their vineyards are located in the southern part of the Chianti Classico region in the municipality of Castelnuovo Berardenga. Some Italian friends told me that I absolutely must try the Villa di Geggiano wines and I’m so glad I did. A blend of 97% Sangiovese and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon their Villa di Geggiano Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 2012 ($45) is elegant, balanced, and full of life.

The Bon Vivant of Ruffino: Beppe d'Andrea Shares Tuscany's Wines and Lifestyle with the World

Beppe in the Big Apple! What a great afternoon of wines and conversation at Upland restaurant with Beppe d'Andrea of Ruffino winery during his whirlwind visit to NYC. 

Beppe d'Andrea is living the dream. As the Global Brand Ambassador for Ruffino winery, Beppe jet sets around the world sharing the infinite charms of "La Vita Ruffino", their mantra for the fine Italian art of good living. For quite some time, I've been happily following Beppe's adventures on social media and I finally had the opportunity to share some wine and conversation with this tireless Tuscan. Charming, energetic, knowledgable, and down-to-earth, Beppe has been with Ruffino for 32 years and represents everything a brand ambassador should be. 

One of the most familiar names in the world of Italian wine, Ruffino was founded in 1877 by cousins Ilario and Leopoldo Ruffino in Tuscany. The very first Chianti exported to the United States, Ruffino is a staple at any well-stocked wine shop. Ruffino's portfolio showcases some of Tuscany's most celebrated wines, including Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, and those captivating blends known as Super Tuscans. "The quality of the wine is not just the juice in the bottle," said Beppe. He further explained that for Ruffino winemaking is about "respect, tradition, and love." Those ideals are manifested in actions such as Ruffino actively taking strides towards 100% organic production. 

image courtesy of Il Relais Ruffino

Explaining that Ruffino's "goal is not to make just good wine but a good life style," Beppe shared news of their very first hotel property, Il Relais Ruffino. Designed to fully immerse guests in La Vita Ruffino, the luxuriously appointed 7-room inn is surrounded by olive trees and vineyards in the heart of Chianti Classico. Located just 20 minutes from Florence at Ruffino's Poggio Casciano estate, the property includes a dramatic infinity swimming pool facing a hillside vineyard where you can sip and lounge the day away. Other activities include wine tastings, vineyard tours, and meals at Locanda Ruffino. 

image courtesy of Il Relais Ruffino

A stay at Il Relais Ruffino has been added to my travel wish list. And if any of my friends are reading this, let's plan to rent out the property for a truly elegant and relaxing Tuscan getaway. If we're lucky, maybe Beppe will be there to greet us! 

Of course, Ruffino's wines make it possible to experience a taste of La Vita Ruffino no matter where you are. 

2015 Ruffino Tenuta Santedame Chianti Classico DOCG ($20) is mostly Sangiovese (80%) blended with Merlot, Colorino, Cabernet, and Canaiolo. 2015 was an exceptional vintage throughout Tuscany and this Chianti Classico is beautifully balanced and full of vitality. Fresh, juicy, and velvety flavors of plum, blackberry, and a hint of savory balsamic. 


A blend of Sangiovese (34%), Cabernet Sauvignon (33%), and Merlot (33%), 2015 Ruffino Modus Toscana IGT ($25) is plush and robust with silky tannins. Aged in French oak for 12 months, subtle hints of spice beautifully accent luscious fruit flavors and hints of herbs. 

Produced only in the very best vintages, only 5,000 bottles of 2015 Ruffino Alauda IGT Toscana ($100) were made. A voluptuous yet graceful blend of Cabernet Franc (40%), Merlot (35%), and Colorino (25%), Alauda shows the magic that can happen when the blessing of an exceptional vintage is married to intuitive yet precise winemaking. With rich berry and plum flavors and hints of chocolate, espresso, and earth, Alauda is superb now and will age exquisitely. 

2013 Ruffino Greppone Mazzi Brunello di Montalcino DOCG ($80) is a fine example of a classic Brunello. Rich but not overbearing, this elegant expression of 100% Sangiovese Grosso dazzles with intense red fruit flavors and sultry hints of chocolate and earth.

Visit the Ruffino website to learn more about Ruffino's wines, history, and details on arranging a visit. 

Tenuta Perano Chianti Classico: Intriguing New Wines from the Iconic Frescobaldi Family

When your family has been making wine for 700 years, no one would fault you for sticking to the tried and true wines that have earned you endless accolades. But that's not the Frescobaldi way. True icons of Tuscan culture, the Frescobaldi family has an exemplary commitment to crafting wines  that are authentic expressions of the terroir of their seven estates. There's no shortage of beautiful Italian wines but even the most jaded drinker gets a bit giddy when they see the name Frescobaldi on the bottle. 

"Great wine is about the site. That is the step from where you can start for the highest level." - Marchese Lamberto Frescobaldi
(If you have sharp eyes, you'll notice that in this photo Marchese Lamberto Frescobaldi is holding a bottle of their award-winning Montesodi from their Castello Nipozzano estate. I ran into the Marchese at the Tre Bicchieri tasting and captured this image.)

I confess to a certain amount of professional giddiness when I was I invited to a luncheon in NYC  hosted by Marchese Lamberto Frescobaldi to taste the first vintage (2015) of their Tenuta Perano Chianti Classico and Chianti Classico Riserva. After leasing the property for a few years, Frescobaldi purchased Castello di San Donato in Perano in 2017. Located in the heart of Chianti Classico, Tenuta Perano is a natural amphitheater with ideal conditions for growing healthy and expressive grapes. 52 of the estate's 250 hectares are planted with vines. 

image courtesy of Frescobaldi

Not only did Frescobaldi select a prime site with the acquisition of Tenuta Perano, but how auspicious that 2015 was the first vintage released. The Marchesi shares the sentiment of many Italian wine experts and aficionados when he declared that "2015 was a great vintage."

The Tenuta Perano wines are a great match with red meat dishes like this steak with roasted potatoes that we enjoyed at Il Gattopardo restaurant in NYC. 

Frescobaldi Tenuta Perano Chianti Classico DOCG 2015 ($25) is a blend of 90% Sangiovese and 10% complementary grapes. Aged for 24 months in barrique and steel, it doesn't sacrifice freshness for richness but instead shows elegant balance between the two. Flavors of dark cherry, brambly berries, with a subtle hint of eucalyptus, thyme and pink pepper make this vino a great match with meat sauces, red meat, and aged cheeses. 

Aged for 24 months in Slavonian oak barrels, Frescobaldi Tenuta Perano Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG ($35) displays more complexity and nuance but is still quite approachable. 95% Sangiovese with a kiss of Merlot, it is robust yet graceful with more noticeable but well-integrated tannins. Delicious now, its flavors of rich cherry, blackberry and plum with a touch of warm spice and earth will age beautifully. 

It is easy to feel intimidated by wines as renowned as Frescobaldi's so I applaud them for making their Tenuta Perano wines so accessibly priced. Their superb quality truly over-delivers at this price point. A sip of Frescobaldi is a tangible connection with Tuscan history and culture. And that is truly priceless.