Discovering the Hidden Gems of Tuscan Wine

When it comes to red wine, Tuscany is a name that instantly springs to mind. Known for producing world-renowned wines like Chianti Classico and Brunello di Montalcino, this region is a treasure trove for wine enthusiasts. While these famous wines take the spotlight, there are other lesser-known regions in Tuscany that also produce exceptional reds. Today, let’s explore the wines from four Tuscan territories: Bolgheri, Chianti Classico, Montalcino, and Montecucco, and discover the hidden gems within each.

Grattamacco, Bolgheri – Nestled in the central eastern sector of the Bolgheri appellation, Grattamacco stands as one of Bolgheri’s Big Three wine estates, alongside Tenuta San Guido (Sassicaia) and Ornellaia. Located in a remote site, Grattamacco offers breathtaking views of the area. What sets this estate apart is its higher elevation, situated on one of only two hills in the Bolgheri zone. This unique positioning creates an ideal environment for growing Sangiovese, an exceptional Tuscan varietal. While many producers in the area focus solely on Bordeaux varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, Grattamacco shines a spotlight on Sangiovese. Their most famous wine, simply labeled Grattamacco, is a Bolgheri Superiore. The recently released 2020 vintage is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, and 15% Sangiovese. Known for its power and structure, this wine can age gracefully for 15-25 years. With its excellent acidity, thanks to the significant percentage of Sangiovese, the wine retains its freshness over the years. Grattamacco’s Bolgheri Superiore is not only celebrated for its longevity but also for its refinement and finesse. The 2020 vintage, with its perfect harmony, is delightful now but promises to continue enchanting palates for another two decades. Grattamacco also produces other noteworthy wines, such as the lighter-bodied Bolgheri Rosso, which shares similar characteristics with the Bolgheri Superiore and offers excellent value. Additionally, their Vermentino is a vibrant and appealing white wine that shines both upon release and with a few years of aging.

Gagliole, Chianti Classico – With over 200 estates in Chianti Classico, it’s easy for some to fly under the radar, no matter the exceptional quality of their wines. Gagliole is a perfect example of a hidden gem in this illustrious region. Situated in the heart of Chianti Classico, Gagliole boasts approximately 50 acres of vineyards, divided between Castellina in Chianti and Panzano. The latter area, with its picturesque rolling hills, is considered prime land within the appellation. Gagliole produces several outstanding examples of Chianti Classico, each showcasing the unique characteristics of their terroir. From the approachable Rubiolo to the beautifully styled Chianti Classico Riserva, Gagliole’s wines are a testament to their commitment to quality. The 2020 vintage of the Riserva is particularly noteworthy, exemplifying the authentic essence of Chianti Classico and earning a well-deserved 92 points. Gagliole’s Gran Selezione, labeled Gallule, is a standout in the lineup. Made exclusively from Sangiovese, it represents the pinnacle of the Gran Selezione category. Combining perfectly balanced fruit flavors, excellent acidity, and impeccable harmony, this wine has the structure to age gracefully for over a decade. The 2019 vintage, which received a score of 95 points, stands as one of the best Italian wines of the year. Gagliole is a winery that deserves more recognition for its exceptional wines, and wine enthusiasts should keep an eye out for their impressive offerings.

Poggio di Sotto, Montalcino – Montalcino is a region renowned for producing exceptional wines, and within this sea of excellence, Poggio di Sotto stands at the pinnacle. Adhering to traditional winemaking practices, Poggio di Sotto produces Brunello di Montalcino exclusively aged in large Slavonian oak casks. The estate was founded in 1989 by Piero Palmucci and was later acquired by Claudio Tipa of Colle Massari in Montecucco in 2011, who continues to uphold the winery’s philosophy and commitment to excellence. Several factors contribute to the brilliance of Poggio di Sotto’s wines. Take their Rosso di Montalcino, for example. This wine perfectly embodies the essence of the region and showcases the exceptional quality of their Sangiovese grapes. However, it is their Brunello di Montalcino that truly steals the show. With its aging potential and timeless elegance, Poggio di Sotto’s Brunello epitomizes the pinnacle of Montalcino’s winemaking. Each bottle tells a story of tradition, showcasing the unique characteristics of the Sangiovese varietal and the terroir of Montalcino. Poggio di Sotto stands as a beacon of excellence in a region overflowing with greatness.

In conclusion, while Tuscany’s fame may be primarily associated with Chianti Classico and Brunello di Montalcino, there are many other regions that contribute to the rich tapestry of Tuscan wine. Bolgheri, Chianti Classico, Montalcino, and Montecucco all offer unique expressions of this exceptional terroir. Grattamacco, Gagliole, and Poggio di Sotto are just a few examples of the hidden gems waiting to be discovered within these regions. Their commitment to quality winemaking and their passion for showcasing the unique characteristics of their respective territories make them deserving of recognition. So, as you explore the world of Tuscan wine, don’t forget to venture beyond the well-known names and savor the treasures hidden in its lesser-known territories.

Exploring the Hidden Beauty of Tuscany: Collemassari Estate in Montecucco

Tuscany, renowned for its picturesque landscapes and exceptional wines, is a treasure trove for wine enthusiasts seeking new discoveries. While most people have heard of the famous Brunello di Montalcino, there is another hidden gem tucked away in the region – the Collemassari estate in Montecucco.

Founded in 1999 by Claudio Tipa and Maria Iris Pertarelli, Collemassari may not be as well-known as its counterparts in Tuscany, but it certainly holds its own when it comes to producing outstanding wines. Boasting nearly 300 acres of vineyards and 225 acres of ancient olive trees, this estate is a testament to the dedication and passion of its owners.

One of the highlights of the Collemassari estate is their signature wine, the Collemassari Montecucco Rosso Riserva. Blending 80% Sangiovese, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 10% Ciliegiolo – a local indigenous varietal – this medium-full-bodied red wine offers beautifully ripe morel cherry fruit with subtle Mediterranean spices. With its impeccable balance and complexity, it is no surprise that this wine can age gracefully for at least ten to twelve years.

Another standout from Collemassari is the Colle Massari Poggio Lambrone Sangiovese Riserva. Bursting with varietal purity and richness, this wine can easily be mistaken for a more expensive Brunello di Montalcino. The 2017 vintage, in particular, showcases great complexity and pairs exceptionally well with steak and other red meats.

While the quality of the wines speaks for itself, a visit to the estate is an experience on its own. The guest rooms are spacious, well-designed, and exude a warm and inviting atmosphere. The beds, in particular, are huge and extremely comfortable, ensuring a restful stay. The resort’s dining room offers a curated wine list featuring only wines from Colle Massari properties, including esteemed names like Poggio di Sotto and Grattamacco. The cuisine is truly exceptional, surpassing the offerings of many renowned restaurants in larger cities in Tuscany.

Situated west of Montalcino, the Montecucco area is often overlooked by wine enthusiasts. However, those who venture into this lesser-known region are rewarded with the quiet beauty of the Collemassari estate. Surrounded by rolling hills and untouched landscapes, it is truly a haven for those seeking a tranquil escape.

Aside from the vineyards, the estate is also home to ancient olive trees – some of which are more than 1000 years old. This juxtaposition of history and nature adds further allure to this already captivating destination. As you meander through the vineyards and olive groves, you can’t help but feel a deep connection to the land and the incredible wines it produces.

Whether you are a dedicated wine aficionado or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, a visit to the Collemassari estate in Montecucco is an experience not to be missed. Discover the harmonious balance, remarkable typicity, and stunning beauty that define the wines of this hidden gem. Allow yourself to be captivated by the understated elegance and serenity of this remarkable piece of Tuscany.

When we think about wine pairings, most of us immediately think about the classic combination of wine with meat, seafood, or cheese. But what about vegans? Can they also enjoy the perfect wine pairing with their meals? The answer is yes, and it’s actually simpler than you might think.

We spoke to Ramon Manglano, the Wine Director of the renowned NYC Michelin-starred restaurant, The Musket Room, to get some insight into the art of wine pairing. According to him, while there may be a slight difference between pairing wines with vegan foods and meat/dairy-centric dishes, his approach to pairing food is always the same.

When Manglano selects a wine for a specific meal, he first looks for the heavier components of the dish. If there is dairy or meat involved, he considers the dish to have heavier, fattier properties. On the other hand, vegan dishes are often not as rich in texture or style, so he approaches them differently.

For vegan dishes, Manglano believes that the wine pairing should be focused on the cooking technique used to prepare the meal. For example, mushrooms can be paired with both white and red wines, but the style of cooking (steamed, roasted, or crispy) will determine whether a lighter white or a red wine is more suitable.

Manglano also offers some advice for those who frequently eat asparagus. He explains that asparagus can be extremely challenging to pair with wine due to its unique composition.

So, while there may be some nuances when it comes to finding the perfect wine for vegan meals, it is certainly possible to achieve a delicious and animal byproduct-free pairing. It just requires some consideration of the cooking technique and the individual components of the dish.

In conclusion, vegans can also enjoy the pleasure of wine pairing with their meals. By understanding the principles of wine pairing and considering the specific characteristics of vegan dishes, it is possible to create harmonious and flavorful combinations. Cheers to that!

The Stress of Opening a Bottle of Wine: A Unique Solution

For wine enthusiasts, few things are as anxiety-inducing as mishandling the uncorking of a new bottle. The added worry of dry corks crumbling upon removal only compounds the fear of potential disaster. We’ve all experienced that moment when our prized bottle ends up full of cork dust. While using the best wine bottle openers can make the task easier, there’s always the dreaded possibility of encountering a brittle cork. Fortunately, a simple trick involving a common kitchen item can save your wine when cork particles accidentally find their way into it.

As it turns out, coffee filters are remarkably effective at keeping granulated powder out of your morning cup of joe. So, it stands to reason that they would be equally effective at keeping tiny cork fragments out of your wine. To rid your wine of these unwanted particles, you can employ the help of a high-quality wine decanter. If you don’t have one on hand, a jug or a punch bowl can suffice. Simply place the coffee filter over the opening of the decanter or vessel and pour the tainted wine through it. The filter will strain out any undesired solids, leaving you with a clean and enjoyable beverage. Moreover, this method can also be used to filter out unpleasant sediment present at the bottom of well-aged bottles, ensuring a smoother mouthfeel while drinking.

Even if you find yourself without a coffee filter and end up with particles from wine aging or broken corks, there’s no need to panic. Consuming these particles is not harmful to your body. Nonetheless, serving wine to others with debris floating in their glasses is far from ideal from an aesthetic standpoint. To avoid this situation altogether, consider exploring wines sealed with alternatives to the classic cork stopper.

Screw caps, once perceived as inferior to corks, have proven to be equally effective in preventing oxygen from entering the bottles. They also eliminate the need for special tools to open. So, if you’re looking to avoid dealing with corks, wines sealed with screw caps are a viable solution. Another option to consider is boxed wine. While there may be a misconception that all boxed wine is mediocre, there are high-quality options available at varying price points. Just like screw caps, boxed wine eliminates the risk of cork taint and the packaging prevents the wine from oxidizing.

If you’ve been fortunate enough to avoid the disappointment of experiencing cork taint, consider yourself lucky. This spoilage, caused by a contaminant present in some corks, can render a bottle undrinkable. However, most retailers are willing to exchange the bottle for you if this unfortunate situation arises.

In the end, whether you choose to employ the coffee filter hack, opt for wines sealed with screw caps, or explore boxed wine options, the goal is to savor every sip of your favorite bottle without any unwanted surprises. Wine drinking should be a pleasurable experience, and with the right knowledge and techniques, you can ensure that every glass is flawless and enjoyable.

Original article published on Mashed.

Wollersheim Winery, located in Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin, is a beloved destination for wine enthusiasts. Every year, over 350,000 people visit the winery to savor its exquisite wines. However, the winery’s success may not have been possible if it weren’t for a pivotal moment in 1988.

The story begins with Philippe Coquard, a winemaker from Beaujolais, France. Coquard had initially planned to pursue his wine education in California but ended up in Wisconsin instead. There, he became an apprentice to Bob Wollersheim, who had purchased the winery in 1972. During his time there, Coquard fell in love with Wollersheim’s daughter, Julie.

Wollersheim Winery has a rich history dating back to the 1800s when the first grapes were planted by Agoston Haraszthy, a Hungarian pioneer often referred to as the father of California wine. Before settling in California, Haraszthy spent some time in Wisconsin, planting grapes and living in the region.

However, in 1988, Wollersheim Winery was facing significant challenges. Coquard recalls, “We might have gone back to France – there was not enough money to grow anything.” It was during this difficult period that Coquard and Julie realized they needed to come up with a winemaking idea that would help keep their family winery afloat.

One evening, while dining out, Coquard tried a Fumé Blanc and had a realization. He decided to create something similar but using Seyval Blanc grapes instead of Sauvignon Blanc. Coquard wanted to capture the aromatic profile of the delicious grapes in the resulting wine. Determined to make this idea a reality, he immersed himself in research, even seeking guidance from his father, an experienced winemaker in France.

Coquard employed cold crashing to stop the fermentation process and retain the desired flavors and aromas. The wine resulting from this technique was named Prairie Fumé, paying homage to the winery’s location in Prairie du Sac. Released in 1989, the very first vintage of Prairie Fumé quickly garnered numerous accolades at wine competitions.

Prairie Fumé possesses a natural sweetness due to the halted fermentation, which also gives it a 10 percent alcohol by volume, providing complexity and weight. Today, Wollersheim Winery produces over two dozen different wines, including Scarlet Fumé, a semi-dry red wine, and Prairie Blush, a semi-dry rosé. Prairie Fumé became Wollersheim’s flagship wine, attracting visitors from near and far.

Coquard and his daughter, Celine, who will be the 14th generation winemaker in their family, work together to craft exceptional wines. Coquard expresses his pride in her talent, saying, “She has it. We taste the same way. She has the (natural born) talent.”

As Prairie Fumé approaches its 35th anniversary next year and Coquard celebrates 40 years of winemaking at Wollersheim, one thing remains constant: a commitment to quality. Coquard asserts, “Quality has always been the driving factor in our wines.”

Wollersheim Winery and Distillery have become an agritourism hotspot, attracting visitors from neighboring states like Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Indiana, and beyond. With its storied past, exceptional wines, and a dedication to quality, Wollersheim Winery continues to flourish, thanks to one winemaker’s “eureka” moment.