Grandi Cru della Costa Toscana 2023

Review and Tasting Notes

Following my review of the Anteprima Vini della Costa Toscana in March, I was asked by the President of the association Duccio Corsini, to taste and review more wines produced by the associates.

These coastal wines cover five provinces which are greatly influenced by the Tyrrhenian Sea: Massa, Lucca, Pisa, Livorno and Grosseto.

You may notice there are similarities in the grapes used by the different areas, but because of terroir and microclimate, these wines are profoundly different.

Make no mistake the quality of these wines is very high, especially the white wines.

Not all of Italy’s wine regions can be as famous as Barolo, Barbaresco, Chianti Classico or Brunello di Montalcino, but this area does produce affordable wines with great quality, mainly under the super Tuscan banner.

The tasting notes are in three sections starting with the reds, followed by the whites and finally the rosés.

Tasting Notes

Vini Rossi / Red Wines

Batzella

Pean 2021

Cabernet Sauvignon 70% Cabernet Franc 30%

Bright pale purple in colour. Needs aeration.Dark blue florals vie with black fruits, humus , liquorice, smoke, Mocha and clove. Rich cool smooth entry, wonderful textures abound. Laced with layered and complex minerality. The Cabernet Franc leads the chorus but the Cabernet Sauvignon will take over given bottle age.

Points 93+ TW

Batzella

Tam 2018

Cabernet Sauvignon 65% Cabernet Franc 35%

Deep ruby red in colour. Compact aromas of black ripe berry fruit, star anise, damp earth and balsamic notes. Medium in texture. Agile. Elegant. Ample and generous. Slightly exotic. So fresh with pulsing energy.Lingers on the close.

Points 95 TW

Batzella

Vox Loci 2019

Cabernet Franc 100%

Medium ruby red in colour. Aromas of graphite and slate awaken the senses. Smoke and orange peel arrive then leave. Blackberry, tar, liquorice all make an entrance, assisting the palate to lift and rewrite the entire experience again and again. This wine just pumps energy through its veins. Wow!

Points 95+ TW

Caiarossa

Aria di Caiarossa 2020

Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Medium purple in colour. Heady aromatics of dark blue florals. Blackberry, blackcurrant, loganberry, balsam notes. Warm entry. Spicy nuances. Full bodied. Balanced. Agile. Distant notes of dark chocolate.

Points 92 TW

Caiarossa

Pergolaia 2020

Sangiovese with small amounts of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

Pale ruby in colour. Aromatics of red and black berry fruit. Compact. Savoury. Balsam notes. Soft, smooth entry. Fine tannins, zesty acidity. Lightly textured. Medium length on the finish.

Points 89 TW

Caiarossa

Caiarossa 2020

Cabernet Franc 28% Syrah 23% Cabernet Sauvignon 18% Merlot 13% Sangiovese 13% Petit Verdot 4% and Grenache 1%.

Deep ruby red in colour. Rich and intense aromatics of dark fruits and spice, such as star anise. Red cherry, blonde tobacco, cinnamon. Structured. Bright and savoury. Graceful and subtle. Superb intensity. Broad long close.

Points 93+ TW

Castello Colle Massari

Colle Massani Rosso Riserva 2019

Sangiovese and small amounts of Ciliegiolo and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Bright ruby red in colour. Aromas of ripe red berries and violet florals. Red cherry, blackberry, blueberry, balsamic notes, spice and aromatic herbs. Secondary nuances of cedar shavings, iron and damp earth. Agile with great length and balance.

Points 93 TW

Castello Colle Massari

Colle Massani Poggio Lombrone Riserva 2017

Sangiovese

Bright medium ruby red in colour. Lifted aromatics of spice, blue florals and lavender. Dark cherry, baked plum, wild black berries, salty liquorice, orange peel with distant tobacco notes. Floats on the palate. Muscular yet agile. Dense and sumptuous. Long finish.

Points 94 TW

Col di Bacche

Poggio alle Viole 2018

Sangiovese 100%

Medium ruby red in colour. Red cherry, vanilla and kirsch, sweet tobacco, blood orange. Fine tannins. Soft and velvety. Mellow finish.

Points 88 TW

Col di Bacche

Cupinero 2019

Merlot with minute amount of Cabernet Sauvignon.

Medium ruby red in colour. Aromas of violet florals.Red cherry, plum and dewberry. Soft tannins vie with fresh low level acidity. Distant earthy notes. Rich and velvety. Balanced. A touch of sapidity on the close.

Points 89 TW

Col di Bacche

Rovente Morellino di Scansano Riserva 2019

Sangiovese and Syrah

Medium ruby red in colour. Aromatics of violet and red rose petal. Red cherry, plum, loganberry, liquorice, mint, Mediterranean herbs, humus and orange peel. Smooth entry. Balanced. Juicy. Agile. Layered minerality. Broad long finish.

Points 93 TW

Colle di Bordocheo

Picchio Rosso 2020

Sangiovese and Merlot

Medium ruby red in colour. Red florals with red and black wild berries. Black cherry, raspberry, blueberry, sweet tobacco, balsam, dark spice and vanilla essence. Warm entry showing good tannic bite, zingy acidity. Medium length on finish.

Points 88 TW

Colline Albelle

Inrosso 2020

Merlot

Medium purple in colour. Red floral nuances vie with red and black berry fruit. Blackberry, Bing cherry, spiced orange peel, liquorice, balsam,sweet tobacco and lead pencil. Tip toes on the palate with barely a foot print. Such poise, like a ballerina. Clean and fresh with an awesome, fruit laden close.

Points 94 TW

Fattoria di Magliano

Altizi 2018

Cabernet Franc

Bright medium ruby red in colour. Inviting aromas of spice, cedar. Blueberry, blackcurrant, loganberry, dried Mediterranean herbs, star anise, dark chocolate and scorched earth. Cool entry. Secondary nuances of dried red cherry and humus.Juicy and a touch wild. Long on the finish.

Points 92 TW

Fattoria di Magliano

Heba Morellino di Scansano 2020

Sangiovese and Syrah

Bright pale ruby red in colour. Aromatics of blue florals and red berry fruit. Red cherry, pomegranate, plum, dewberry, balsam notes, sweet tobacco, liquorice and slate. Cool entry. Juicy. Complex minerality assists freshness. Clean mouthfeel. Articulated finish.

Points 92 TW

Fattoria di Magliano

Poggio Bestiale 2019

Bordeaux blend

Aromatics of rose petal and violet. Red cherry, raspberry, orange peel, black pepper and balsam nuances. Complex spice box. Warm entry. Rich on the mid palate. Intense. Linear. Persistent. Needs a few more years bottle time.

Points 91-93 TW

Fattoria La Torre

Esse 2018

Syrah 100%

Medium ruby red in colour. Aromas of red and black berry fruit. Salty liquorice. Kirsch. Lightly textured. Medium bodied. Soft contours. Peppery notes on the close.

Points 89 TW

Fattoria La Torre

Stringaio 2021

Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Pale ruby red in colour. White floral aromas with vanilla. Red cherry, blackberry. Soft entry. Fine tannins balanced with fresh acidity. Saline infused energy. Tapers on the close. Needs bottle age.

Points 89-90 TW

Fattoria La Torre

Cabernet Franc 2021

A shade below deep ruby red in colour. Ripe red cherry, blackcurrant, pomegranate, dewberry, salty liquorice, balsamic notes and dark spice. Cool entry. Elegant body. Well extracted. Showing freshness and energy across the mid palate. Lingers on the close.

Points 92 TW

Gianni Moscardini

Sileno 2020

Ciliegiolo 100%

Pale ruby red in colour. Distant aromatics of red rose petal and dried cherry. Bing cherry, orange peel, kirsch, dried sage, rose hip tea and white smoke. Balanced. Integrated tannins and acidity. Medium to long finish.

Points 90 TW

Gianni Moscardini

Penteo 2021

Sangiovese 85% Teroldego 15%

Medium ruby red in colour. Aromatics of fresh cut spring flowers. Red cherry, plum, blood orange, exotic spice, mint and blonde tobacco. Cool entry, lightly textured, fruity character with an essence of citrus. Fresh, clean mouthfeel. Comes up a touch short on the close.

Points 89 TW

Gianni Moscardini

Atteone 2020

Cabernet Franc

Deep ruby red in colour. Blackberry, blueberry, liquorice, dried herbal notes, tobacco leaf and cinnamon. Juicy entry, restrained palate. Fine tannins. Secondary nuances of black tea and tree bark. Medium length on finish.

Points 89 TW

I Giusti & Zanza

Vigna Vecchia 2020

Sangiovese

Pale ruby red in colour. Complex aromatics of dark blue florals and rose petal. Red cherry, loganberry, pomegranate, salty liquorice and blood orange. Lightly textured. A wonderful expression of Sangiovese. Memorable.

Points 94 TW

I Giusti & Zanza

Dulcamara 2020

Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc

Deep purple in colour. Violet and Iris florals. Blackberry, blackcurrant, blueberry, liquorice, black tea, balsamic notes, dried Mediterranean herbs, slate and toasted sweet tobacco. Compact. Dense, full bodied. Natural richness. Interwoven tannins and acidity. Wild and savoury. Beautifully balanced.

Points 95 TW

Marina Romin

Turseno 2019

Sangiovese

Medium ruby red in colour. Aromas of violet and ripe red fruit. Red cherry, blueberry, liquorice, dried Mediterranean herbs, pomegranate and old leather. Elegant body. Pleasant progression with fine tannins. Nicely done.

Points 92 TW

Marina Romin

Pomerio 2020

Sangiovese and small amounts of other unknown grapes!

Medium ruby red in colour. Aromas of violet, Iris and black berry fruit. Black cherry, blackberry, blood orange, cedar shavings, sweet tobacco and balsamic notes. Warm soft entry with rounded edges. Fresh zesty acidity vie with slight tannic bite.Super expressive. Broad and juicy long finish.

Points 93 TW

Marina Romin

Boccanera 2021

Sangiovese 40-60%? with other indigenous grapes.

Medium purple in colour. Exotic florals and spice, red fruits and citrus peel. Blackcurrant, blueberry, sweet tobacco, cigar box, distant balsam notes and graphite. Warm entry showing a breadth of flavour. Exotic. Saline infused energy hit coming off mid palate. Mesmerising.

Points 94 TW

Morisfarms

Avvoltore 2018

Sangiovese 75% Cabernet Sauvignon 20% Syrah 5%

Medium purple in colour. Rich heightened aromatics of black cherry, dark plum and exotic spice. Blackberry, Victoria plum, new leather, liquorice, blonde tobacco and distant vanilla notes.Stunning textural richness, Creamy. Articulated long close.

Points 94 TW

Morisfarms

Morellino di Scansano 2021

Sangiovese (usually with small amounts of Bordeaux blend fruit)

Pale purple in colour. Fresh aromas of blue florals and ripe black fruit. Blackcurrant, black cherry, blueberry, liquorice, dried earth, Mediterranean herbs, balsam notes and dark spice. Lightly textured, soft contours, fine tannins, vivid acidity. Balanced. Showing freshness that gives suppleness. Youthful but showing well.

Points 92 TW

Pakravan Papi

Gabbriccio 2017

Sangiovese 100%

Medium ruby red in colour. Needs aeration.Violet florals with distant lavender cover the initial aromatics. Bing cherry, loganberry, dark plum, dried earth, worn leather, tobacco and cinnamon. Savoury. Very lightly textured. Hardly makes an imprint on the palate, then fads away.

Points 86 TW

Pakravan Papi

Campo del Papi 2016

Merlot 80% plus Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc 20%

Intense deep ruby red in colour with purple outer rim. Blue floral of violet, lavender and blackberry fruit prevail on the nose. Bing cherry, plum, pomegranate, orange peel, balsamic notes, sweet tobacco and menthol infused herbal nuances. Tree bark and exotic spice complete the line up. Cool entry expands on the mid palate showing textural richness and structure. Impressive fruit quality. Whisper of alcohol on the close does not detract.

Points 94 TW

Petra

Hebo 2021

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese.

Pale purple in colour. Violet florals. Black cherry, dewberry, blueberry, dried Mediterranean herbs, blood orange, liquorice and tobacco leaf. Showing its youthful edge. Interesting minerality. Distant spice notes on the close.

Points 90 TW

Petra

Quercegobbe 2020

Merlot 100%

Medium ruby red in colour. Aromas of Mediterranean herbs, broom, liquorice and black fruit.Blackberry, blueberry, blackcurrant jam, exotic spice and liquorice. Soft warm entry. Fine tannins. Fresh acidity. Balanced.Broadens from mid palate to a long close, leaving a clean, fresh mouthfeel.

Points 93 TW

Petra

Petra 2020

Cabernet Sauvignon 60% Merlot 30% Cabernet Franc 10%

Ruby red in colour. Aromas of Mediterranean scrub, myrtle and scorched earth. Blackberry, blueberry, menthol herbal notes, balsam and star anise. Very elegant body. Fine grained tannins. Tight and polished. Seamless and unwavering. Persistent. Juicy close.

Points 95 TW

Pieve Santo Stefano

Vento dell’ Ovest 2019

Cabernet Franc

Deep ruby red in colour. Needs aeration. Aromas of tree bark, dried humus and charcoal. Vegetal. Distant dark fruit. Not a good showing ( second bottle )

Points 84 TW

Pieve Santo Stefano

Lippi 2018

Merlot and Cabernet Franc

Deep Purple in colour. Red florals with red and black berry fruit provide the aromatics. Red cherry, blackberry, loganberry, black tea and smoke. Juicy. Medium bodied. Grilled Mediterranean herbs on the back end, medium length on the close.

Points 89 TW

Pieve Santo Stefano

Ludovico Sardini 2018

Sangiovese

Medium ruby red in colour.Violet and Iris florals. Red cherry, balsam, white plum, white raspberry, essence of citrus. Restrained palate. Medium length on the close.

Points 87 TW

Poggio L’ Apparita

San Gio 2018

Sangiovese 100%

Pale ruby red in colour. Needs aeration. Aromas of blue florals and vanilla. Red cherry, plum, orange peel. Warm rich entry. Showing textural depth and structure. Agile with good length.

Points 90 TW

Poggio L’Apparita

San Michele Riserva 2018

Sangiovese 60% Merlot 15% Syrah 15% Cabernet Sauvignon 5% and Petit Verdot 5%

Medium ruby red in colour. Violet florals with pale rose petal. Black cherry, loganberry, liquorice. Pomegranate, balsamic notes, dried Mediterranean herbs. Warm entry, coats the palate with spiced infused fruit. Agile and juicy. Long finish.

Points 93 TW

Podere La Regola

La Regola 2020

Cabernet Franc

Medium ruby red in colour. Aromas of blackberry, sweet spice, humus and sweet tobacco. Blackberry, blueberry, white smoke, intense balsam notes. Racy character. Tons of energy.Plump and juicy. Finish lasts for minutes. Impressive.

Points 95 TW

Riccardo Capua

Miosogno 2017

Alicante

Medium purple in colour. Aromas of strawberry with green top and prune. Red fruits, turmeric, orange peel in alcohol, Mediterranean herbal notes.Cool entry. Slightly vegetal on the mid palate. Juicy. Notes of smoke on the close.

Points 89 TW

Riccardo Capua

Tuttocuore 2018

Sangiovese

Medium ruby red in colour. Aromas of dark blue florals and essence of blackberry.

Black cherry, dark plum, blackberry, blueberry, floral underbrush and orange peel. Cool entry. Fine tannins, fresh acidity and layered minerality. Medium length on finish.

Points 89 TW

Riccardo Capua

Fiammante 2020

Cabernet Franc

Medium purple in colour. Aromas of black fruits, warm earth and red florals. Black cherry, blackberry, dewberry, blood orange, exotic spice and bay leaf. Cool entry. Coats the mid palate showing some textural depth. Expansive. Smokey nuances and red pepper on the long close.

Points 90 TW

Sassotondo

San Lorenzo 2019

Ciliegiolo 100%

Pale ruby red in colour with purple undertones. Aromatics of pale pink rose petal and gardenia. Ripe red cherry, redcurrant, baked red plum, dried Mediterranean herbs, white pepper and exotic spice.Cool entry. Elegant. Balanced. Fruity. Agile. Lightly textured with ultra fine tannins and integrated acidity. Vertical on the mid palate with articulated close.

Points 92 TW

Sassotondo

Sassotondo Rosso 2022

Ciliegiolo

Medium ruby red in colour with purple highlights. Aromatics of violet, Iris and cherry in alcohol. Red cherry, plum, pomegranate, blonde tobacco, mint, clove notes with distant liquorice. Cool entry. Slightly lean in texture. Good showing from fruit holding it all together. Distant spice notes on the finish.

Points 89 TW

Sassotondo

Monte Calvo 2021

Ciliegiolo

Pale purple in colour. Elegant on the nose showing dried cherry and baking spice. Red cherry, plum, wild strawberry, balsam, vanilla, sweet tobacco and tar. Glides across the palate showing poise, balance and elegance. Tannins have dissolved into the wine. Energy and harmony go hand in hand. Lingers on the close. Impressive.

Points 94 TW

Tenuta del Buonamico

Cercatoja 2018

Sangiovese, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon.

Medium ruby red in colour. Intense floral canopy of violet and rose petal. Blackberry, dark plum, black cherry, cedar shavings, bitter chocolate, sweet tobacco and vanilla.

Broad sweet soft entry. Rich and inviting. Agile with great length.

Points 92 TW

Tenuta Del Buonamico

Etichetta Blu 2019

Sangiovese, Canaiolo, Syrah and Merlot

Pale ruby red in colour. Aromatics of red fruits and pale blue florals, vanilla, spice and dark chocolate. A rich, persistent wine with a compact personality, bringing an intensity that is compelling. Silky textures with a long juicy finish.

Points 93 TW

Tenuta Lenzini

Casa e Chiesa 2022

Merlot

Pale purple in colour.Heady aromas of crushed red rose petal. Red cherry, plum, blood orange, leather and herbal notes. Cool soft entry, creamy and voluptuous. Bright and translucent. Savoury. Articulated close.

Points 91-93 TW

Tenuta Lenzini

Poggio De’ Paoli 2020

Cabernet Sauvignon

Firstly, it has Cabernet Sauvignon on the back label , but it doesn’t come across as 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. I pick up Merlot and maybe Cabernet Franc, but no matter. It is based on all these grapes plus Syrah and Alicante.

Intense ruby red in colour. Florals of red rose petal and violet. Complex and rich. Showing red cherry, pomegranate, blackcurrant, kirsch and exotic spice. Scorched earth. Silky tannins. Plump and juicy. Savoury. Terrific persistence. Articulated long finish.

Points 94 TW

Tenuta Lenzini

La Syrah 2021

Pale ruby in colour. Dark blue floral aromas vie with black fruits. Obvious spice character with graphite, liquorice, white smoke. Nuances of tobacco and sage. Tannins have dissolved into the wine. Seamless. Juicy. Medium length on the finish.

Points 92 TW

Tenuta Maria Teresa

Urlo di Lupo 2021

Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Merlot

Pale ruby red in colour. Aromas of violet florals and black berry fruits. Dark cherry, blackcurrant, blackberry, vanilla, soy and dark Eastern spice.Secondary nuances of tobacco and slate. Light entry. Passes over the mid palate at speed. Comes across as requiring more weight and structure. Short on the close.

Points 88 TW

Tenuta Marsiliana

Marsiliana 2019

Medium ruby red in colour with purple undertones. Aromatics of violet, Iris and red rose petal. Blackberry, blackcurrant, menthol infused herbs, blood orange, dark Eastern spice. Warm entry. Elegant. Balanced. Slight tannic bite, still showing a little tension. Vivid acidity. Juicy on the close.

Points 92 TW

Tenuta Marsiliana

Marsiliana 2020

Deep ruby red in colour. Flirtatious aromatic delineation. Ripe red cherry. blackberry, blackcurrant, salty liquorice, humus, rosemary and orange peel. Spreads across the mid palate showing berry character along with freshness and energy. Intense. Persistent.Has a natural richness. Long broad finish.

Points 93 TW

Tenuta Marsiliana

Birillo 2020

Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot

Medium ruby red in colour. Kirsch, eucalyptus, liquorice, rosemary and tar. Soft smooth entry. Lightly textured. Leaves a clean, fresh mouthfeel. Lingers on the close.

Points 90 TW

Tenuta Prima Pietra

Prima Pietra 2019

Merlot 50% Cabernet Sauvignon 30% Cabernet Franc10% Petit Verdot 10%

Intense ruby red in colour. Blueberry, blackberry, dark plum, leather and liquorice.

Saline infused energy. Compact. Juicy. Agile. Great depth. Persistent.

Points 93 TW

Tenuta Prima Pietra

Prima Pietra 2020

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc.

Ruby red in colour with purple undertones.

Aromas of red and black berries, exotic spice and plum. Further nuances of worn leather, damp earth, smoke and distant balsamic nuances. Showing ripeness and flavour variations. Balanced tannins and acidity.Hovers on the close.

Points 94 TW

Tenuta Prima Pietra

Prima Pietra 2021

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc.

Deep ruby red in colour. Potent aromatics coming from this newly bottled boisterous and super expressive wine.The Merlot quality is totally outstanding, giving layers of textural depth alongside complex minerality. A wine with wide shoulders. Mocha aromas coming off mid palate. Full of nuances and character. Best ever from here, in my book.

Points 96 TW

Tenute Folonari

Tenuta Campo al Mare

Baia al Vento Bolgheri 2020

Merlot 90% Cabernet Franc 5% and Petit Verdot 5%

Bright ruby red in colour. Aromas of Mediterranean herbs and black fruits. Blackberry, dark plum, blueberry, blackcurrant jam, cherry and vanilla. Salty liquorice and prune notes. Dense and concentrated. Crunchy tannins vie with vivid acidity. Although it has a brooding and muscular character it is also agile and juicy. Terrific persistence. Absorbing display of Merlot. Medium to long on the close.

Points 93-95 TW

Valle del Sole

Ebrius 2020

Sangiovese 100%

Very pale ruby red in colour. Blackberry, plum, pomegranate, tobacco, liquorice, balsamic notes and clove. Rich warm entry. Lightly textured.Shows finesse and balance. Saturates the palate. Good showing.

Points 93 TW

Varramista

Varramista 2019

Syrah

Medium ruby red in colour. Blue florals and black berry fruit come and go on the first engagement. Like many 2019’s I have encountered slightly subdued and a touch closed. Blackcurrant and blueberry make a small statement, spice notes as expected. This is one for the back of the cellar. Time will flush out all the nuances, so patience is required and you will be justly rewarded.

Points 91-93 TW

Varramista

Frasca 2019

Terre di Pisa Rosso Merlot and Syrah.

Aromas of violet and rose petal florals. Red cherry, pomegranate, blackberry, blood orange, sweet tobacco, slight balsamic notes, liquorice with menthol infused Mediterranean herbs. Cool entry. Lightly textured. Juicy. Creamy. Long articulated finish.

Points 92+ TW

Varramista

Frasca 2020

Merlot and Syrah

Medium ruby red in colour with purple undertones. Aromatics of violet florals and lavender. Black cherry, blackberry, blackcurrant, tobacco, mint, herbal notes.Linear. Balanced. Tangy acidity vie with youth tannins. Has come together nicely. Long juicy finish.

Points 92-93 TW

Varramista

Sterpato 2020

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangiovese.

Pale ruby red in colour. Dark petal florals. Red cherry, raspberry, orange peel, clove and liquorice. Soft contours shade an appealing body. Rich palate. Youthful acidity drives the energy and freshness. Slight dryness on the back end. Medium length on the close.

Points 89 TW

Villa Santo Stefano

Nina 2020

Cabernet Franc100%

This is the first vintage of this wine. Limited edition of only 2,000 bottles.

Elegant floral notes showing rose petal and violet. Red fruits consisting of small wild berries, floral underbrush, herbal notes and peppery tones. Savoury. Agile and juicy. Silky tannins vie with fresh acidity. Compelling.

Points 94+TW

Villa Santo Stefano

Loto 2020

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot.

Intense ruby red in colour. Red cherry, blackcurrant, loganberry, dark plum, smoke and liquorice. Compact tannins balance out with vivid acidity. Savoury and earthy. Medium bodied. Edgy and primary. Medium length on the finish.

Points 94 TW

Vini Bianchi / White Wines

Borgo La Torre

Altair 2022

Vermentino and Viognier

Bright straw yellow in colour with greenish tints. Fresh cut spring florals. Scented green apple, Asian pear. Very well balanced. Medium bodied. Fresh vibrant mouthfeel on the close.

Points 90 TW

Castello Colle Massari

Irisse 2021

Vermentino Grechetto

Straw yellow in colour. Mediterranean scrub, white peach, apricot, star fruit. Layered minerality. Savoury. Elegant. Medium bodied. Agile. Tangerine zest on the close

Points 91 TW

Castello Colle Massari

Melacce 2022

Vermentino

Pale straw in colour. Aromas of sea shore and yellow fruits, white and yellow florals. Apricot, peach, yellow apple. Concentrated ripeness. Poised and Fragrant. Fresh, clean citrusy finish.

Points 91 TW

Colle di Bordocheo

Bianco dell’Oca 2021

Chardonnay, Vermentino and possibility of Petit Manseng.

Bright and deep gold in colour. Elegant aromatics of Gardenia and spring flowers.Orchard fruits quickly give way to a compote of tropical fleshed fruits and almond. Cool entry, slowly expands with air intake on the mid palate showing layered textural depth and fine minerality. Tapers slightly before the end.

Points 92 TW

Colline Albelle

Inbianco 2021

Vermentino

Medium yellow in colour with bright undertones.Green apple, white peach, grass notes and wet sea shore pebble minerality. The olfactory complexity is well worthy of investigation. Fruity entry. Agile. Fresh mouthfeel. Slight citrusy notes on the close.

Points 91+TW

Fattoria di Magliano

Pagliatura 2022

Vermentino

Pale straw in colour. Yellow and white floral aromatics. White peach, conference pear and white mulberry. Soft rounded entry.Medium bodied. Ultra fine tannins. Fresh acidity.Compact, linear and persistent. Clean and juicy finish.

Points 91 TW

Gianni Moscardini

Artume 2021

Fiano di Avellino and Vermentino

Medium gold in colour. White florals with vanilla and white pepper. Honeydew melon, pineapple and Asian pear. Saline energy drive the linear aspect of this wine. Sweet ripe fruit nuances give way to minerality on the finish.

Points 90 TW

La Regola

Lauro 2020

Viognier and Chardonnay

Bright straw yellow with gold undertones. Heady aromatics of nut shell, sea shore pebble and broom. Mango, passion fruit, pink pineapple and lychee. Paints the palate with light strokes. Lifted and sophisticated. Articulated long juicy close. Wow.

Points 94 TW

Marina Romin

Aura 2022

Vermentino

Pale straw in colour. Grapefruit, citrus notes, oyster shell minerality. Medium bodied. Balanced. Linear. Persistent. Broad juicy finish. Carries more weight than 2021.

Points 91 TW

Morisfarms

Vermentino 2022

Bright pale straw in colour. Yellow and white floral aromatics. White peach, apricot, nectarine. Delicate entry. Shows class from the start. Smooth and flirtatious. Great energy and balance. Slight citrusy character on the finish.

Points 91 TW

Morisfarms

Amor 2022

Ansonica 100%

Medium straw in colour with pale green undertones.Yellow peach, apricot, nectarine, almond. Secondary notes of white sour cherry and white mulberry. Cool rich entry, coats the palate. Generous and compelling. The fresh acidity drives the linear energy. Pure joy.

Points 93 TW

Pakravan Papi

Serra de Cocci 2022

Chardonnay

Pale gold in colour. Aromatics of yellow florals such as mimosa and buttercup.

Grapefruit, citrus notes, honeydew melon. Tangerine zest.Mid palate is crisp, mineral and the fresh acidity carries to the finish. Brioche nuances in the distance.Linear and persistence. This is a fine, terroir led Chardonnay.

Points 93 TW

Pakravan Papi

Ribellante 2022

Chardonnay, Malvasia, Riesling

Pale yellow in colour. Grapefruit, honeydew melon, star fruit and lychee. Complex minerality drives the energy assisted by fresh zingy acidity. Lightly textured. Medium to full bodied. Elegant. Broad and juicy close.

Points 91+TW

Poggio L’ Apparita

San Gio 2022

Sangiovese Bianco

Bright pale straw in colour. Floral notes of gardenia and buttercup. Mineral infused orchard fruit. Cool entry. Soft contours. Balanced. Plush and silky. Dry sea shore pebble nuances on the close.

Points 90 TW

Riccardo Capua

Dolceamore 2022

Chardonnay 100%

Deep gold in colour. Distinctive spiced profile with yellow florals, Asian fruits, brioche, almond. Lightly weighted. Very soft edges. Minerality keeps the possibility of buttery nuances in check. Balanced. Medium length on the close.

Points 92 TW

Sassotondo

Numero Sei 2021

Greco, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier.

Pale amber in colour. Fleshy white soft fruits, balsam, exotic spice, cedar shaving and candied orange peel. Iron. Saline infused energy. Vertical. This opulent white wine would even work with roast meats!

Points 92 TW

Tenuta Del Buonamico

Mio 2022

Viognier

Pale gold in colour with greenish undertones.Yellow floral aromas. Yellow peach, apricot, pink grapefruit. Vivid and crisp on entry. Herbal nuances. Precise. Lingers on the close.

Points 90 TW

Tenuta Maria Teresa

Leudo 2022

Chardonnay 100%

Medium gold in colour with pale green undertones. Heady aromas of Mediterranean scrub , broom, apple, mint and pineapple. Carries good weight. Linear. Medium bodied and finely textured. Tapers to an abrupt close.

Points 88 TW

Tenuta Marsiliana

Vermentino 2022

Pale straw in colour. Intense yellow and white florals account for the aromatics. This canopy is underpinned with massy and fleshy fruits of peach, apricot and Comice pear. Scented herbal notes, acacia honey and slate minerality all show themselves on the mid palate. Saline energy closes the engagement.

Points 91 TW

Valle del Sole

H’ama 2021

Trebbiano

Pale gold with yellow reflections in colour. Spring yellow and white florals. Noticeable complex minerality. White peach, honeydew melon, almond with distant saline nuances on the close.

Points 89 TW

Valle del Sole

Malíe 2022

Vermentino, Chardonnay and Grechetto

Pale gold in colour. Orchard fruit, yellow peach, apricot, dried herbs including sage. White balsamic notes. Lightly textured. Balanced. Sweet fruity character. Knife edge acidity. Complex minerality. Medium length on the close.

Points 90 TW

Villa Santo Stefano

Gioia 2022

Vermentino

Pale straw in colour. Apricot, grapefruit, citrus notes, yellow apple and white peach come and go. Rounded with a citrusy character that lifts the mid palate. Balanced with great length.

Points 91 TW

Vini Rosati / Rosé Wines

Pieve Santo Stefano

Orizzonte Rosato 2022

Syrah

Light pink with orange highlights in colour. On the nose spicy pink florals. Medium bodied. Fine texture. Hardly any weight to carry it through. Very closed an inward looking.

No points given

Poggio L’Apparita

San Michele 2022

Sangiovese Rosato

Pale salmon pink in colour. Aromatics of pale pink rose petal, pink grapefruit, wild strawberry, loganberry. Soft rounded entry. Compact fruits. Medium bodied. Pulses energy on the close.

Points 89+ TW

Tenuta del Buonamico

Particolare NV

Gran Cuvée Brut Rosé

Sangiovese and Syrah

Aromatics of white florals and wild rose. Wild strawberry, raspberry, sour red cherry and herbal notes. Grippy tannins, fresh zesty acidity, layered minerality. Medium peerage.

Long fruity and juicy finish.

Points 89 TW

Tenuta Lenzini

B- Side Rosato 2022

Merlot

Deep salmon pink in colour. Aromas of crushed rose petal, citrus and distant spice. White cherry, orange peel, strawberry with green top. Shows finesse yet is full bodied with broad shoulders. Coats the palate. Linear juicy close.

Points 90 TW

Tenuta Maria Teresa

Mia Purilla 2022

Merlot with small amount of Chardonnay.

Bright salmon pink in colour. Aromas of pink rose petal. Watermelon, white peach, pomegranate and spice. Soft entry. Agile and juicy. Delicate yet persistent.

Points 90 TW

Valle del Sole

Occhi di Fata 2022

Sangiovese rosato

Pale salmon pink in colour with light coppery tone. Wild strawberry, white cherry, raspberry, cake spice. Fleshy fruit flavour captures the mid palate. Lightly textured. Pink grapefruit notes follow. Broad, juicy long finish.

Points 91 TW

Villa Santo Stefano

Luna 2022

Merlot 50% Sangiovese 50%

Copper toned salmon pink in colour. White peach, wild strawberry, plum and red apple. Menthol notes. Good acidity balance with minerality. Medium to light in body. Juicy. Leaves clean, crisp fresh mouthfeel.

Points 91 TW

My sincere thanks to the President of the Associazione Grandi Cru Della Costa Toscana Duccio Corsini and to the members for sending their wines for my appraisal.

© Tony Wood Italian Wine 2023