“Readers who have not discovered these wines yet owe it to themselves to do so. Castello di Bossi remains very much under the radar, particularly considering the quality of the wines.” – Vinous

Y’all know Tuscan Merlot is a big deal, right? Masseto, Redigaffi, Messorio, Galatrona…. Well, those names start in the $100s and can march north of $1,000 a bottle.

A pure Tuscan Merlot done in that Super-style under $50 with 97 points to prove it belongs in that same league? Unimaginable. Yet, it’s before your eyes.

“If asked to name my favorite under-the-radar estates in Tuscany,” remarks Vinous: “Castello di Bossi would occupy a place pretty near the top of that list… I always look forward to tasting the new releases from Castello di Bossi and consulting oenologist Alberto Antonini; they are off the charts. Proprietor Marco Bacci makes a wide range of wines across his properties in Tuscany, but those of Castello di Bossi lead the way when it comes to quality and consistency. These are rich, textured wines that in most cases can handle fairly high amounts of new French oak.”

This comes from the highly prized Castelnuovo Berardenga commune, with insane bang for the buck. At $49, it’s a - drop what you’re doing and stock up now - priority. Think of it as an Italian love child of Oakville Merlot and a sexy, ripe Pomerol.

Remember Sting’s Sacred Love? Yep, that Super Tuscan Merlot that some Ops still to this date regret not getting more of. This has similar vibes. Vibrant purple, with a heavenly bouquet of black cherries, crème de cassis, crushed rocks, leafy herbs, and blooming violets. Incredibly pure, finesse-driven on the palate, concentrated and powerful, building tannin and fresh acidity, all pointing to long cellaring potential. This is a genuine showstopper, alright, with that Italian flair to spare, begging for some hearty Tuscan fare!

Too bad there’s so little of it, destined to go fast.

97 Points – James Sucking “This is sophisticated and refined, with aromas of blackberries, spices, smoke, lavender, licorice, black olives and a hint of balsamic. Medium-bodied with excellent structure and tannins and a long and rather endless finish. Pure Merlot.”

94+ Points – Vinous “The 2022 Girolamo is terrific. Merlot does so well here, in the southern slopes of Castelnuovo Berardenga. Black cherry, licorice, cloves, menthol, and chocolate are all dialed up. This opulent, polished Merlot is impeccably done. Drink 2026-2037.”