The roots of the Colombini family in Tuscany go back to 1592, with winemaking beginning in 1790 with the founding of the Fattoria dei Barbi. Francesca Cinelli Colombini, also known as the “Lady of Brunello” made a name for herself in the 1970s the leader of Barbi’s top wines. This Sangiovese aged one year in oak, revealing sweet salami, smoked wood, brooding black plum, earthy cherry, tobacco, leather, tar and lightly tuggy framing tannins that run the sides. Potent balsamic and tobacco linger on the grippy finish. This is an imposing wine that is really a softy underneath. Once open (or flash decanted) this will charm you, especially with roasted pork or lamb.
There are 7 types of the ancient variety Greco in Italy, all of which are rich in polyphenols and anthocyanins, and resulting in a white wine with an unusually golden yellow and light tannins. Certainly evident here in this striking example, with a shining gold hue leading to light honey, quince, wild herbs, ample salts and broken stone. Great concentration on the expansive palate, all pinned with lovely refreshing acidity and tucked with that fine grip of tannins. Organically farmed 15-year-old vines from a clay-soiled single vineyard at 520 m ferment in small oak and stainless steel (30/70) for a month before resting on fine lees in larger vessels for 7 months. Quintodecimo is an exciting advocate for native grapes of Campania, and his wines are worth seeking out.
Claudio Bisi makes wines with character and individuality. His Croatina (aka Bonarda) exhibits floral, herbal and blueberry notes while the palate is rich, complex and filled out by ripe, mouth-filling tannins. The rustic finish adds even more interest. Accompany with aged cheeses.
Clear pale yellow. Faint nose of peach and melon. Light-bodied with lemon-lime flavours, a hint of cucumber, and a crisp, minerally finish. Good as an apéritif, or with a fatty fish like salmon.
A pretty good bargain sparkler from South Africa with a nose of sweet grapefruit, cut grass, lime and toast. On the palate look for tropical fruits, crisp citrus and a soft bead of bubbles. Pair with oysters, sushi or grilled fish.
From a select block on the estate of 40-year-old vines. Generous black fruit, cherry and violet notes, followed by a well-structured but balanced palate with measured French oak underpinned by mineral and earthy streaks before a long and supple close.
Ruby purplish. Seductive nose of red and black fruits, subtle oak. Full-bodied yet fresh with supple tannins well wrapped in fruit. Good balance overall. Drink this great buy within a year.