HAPPY 2025!!!

“These deliver on all fronts, from the more modest offerings all the way to the top… sleek, racy Maremma reds, plenty of richness but in a style that provides tons of energy as well.” – Antonio Galloni’s Vinous

Dante Alighieri, hear us out, we’re rewriting the Divine Comedy on this first day of the year…

It’s at the very least a humorous attempt, a 92-pointer, highly pedigreed Super Tuscan UNDER $20?! Join us laughing all the way to the bank.

Bound to take off like Da Vinci’s aerial screw, so stuff your locker first, then read up.

Secured your case or two? Good. Now check out this stunning architectural spotlight and then let this quote sink in: “Rocca di Frassinello winery is a joint venture between Castellare di Castellina and Domaines Barons de Rothschild-Château Lafite, an unmistakable name in the greatest wines of France and of the world.”

When we feature a Castellare, or a Lafite, they last a few hours, maybe. This, cut of the same cloth, at a price that is far less than an outing at the movies costs you these days, or a juicy prime cut of steak, this bargain will blow your little minds with its pedigree and intensity.

Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate once raved about “another strong set of wines from proprietor Paolo Panerai and long-time winemaker Alessandro Cellai. I find it interesting that Panerai pursues a much more refined approach at Castellare, his legacy Tuscan winery than at Rocca di Frassinello, where the wines are made in a more full-throttle style that pushes the edge of ripeness.” Well, that could not be truer than in this blend of 40% Sangiovese with 30% each of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

The nose and the palate come loaded with copious amounts of crème de cassis, blackberry jam, spice, lavender, violets, and crushed rocks. Silky tannins, and a range of floral and spicy overtones convey an impression of refinement and ample complexity.

Did we say $19?! It surely is a TON of wine for the money!

92 Points – James Suckling “Aromas of black fruit, currants, oyster shells, iodine, cocoa and herbs. It’s full-bodied with tight, firm tannins. Structured and savory. Try from 2023.”