Italian Wine Reigns Supreme

Il Vino Italiano Regna Suprema

The quality of Italian wine becoming available to consumers lately is unparalleled. Week after week, the Leschi Market tasting panel sees more and more wines that command our attention. So much so in fact, the wine department expanded the Italian section to accommodate the influx. Been drinking Brunello your entire life? Are you curious yet intimidated by Italian wines and varietals? No matter which end of the spectrum you find yourself on, or somewhere in the middle, now is the time. From high end to inexpensive, the choices, the quality and the pricing has never been better. What follows is a “hot seven,” of sorts, however I do encourage you to stroll through the Market to see the abundance of new and exciting wine!

2011 Schiavenza Barolo Prapò ($56)

“Sweet cherry and plum notes are complemented by licorice, leather, tar and tobacco flavors in this muscular, beefy red, which is balanced, with a long aftertaste that emphasizes its savory, briary side. Best from 2019 through 2033. 275 cases made.” - Wine Spectator, 95 points.

2009 Vignalta “Agno Tinto” Rosso del Veneto ($21)

75% Petite Sirah is blended with 25% Syrah. In 1998, the 40-year-old vineyard of Tocai was grafted with Petite Sirah. This is the newest red wine at Vignalta and one of its most innovative. The wine has been greeted with a ‘standing ovation’. It is warm, with notes of raspberries and blackberries. Spicy and elegant …an iron fist in a velvet glove.

2014 Cantina Altarocca Arcosesto Bianco Orvieto Classico Superiore Umbria ($15)