A rebellion against DOC grape requirements began by producers intent on making superior wines. Desiring to make a richer, more serious red wine, they reduced or eliminated the white grapes. Legally prevented from using the Chianti name (many did it surreptitiously), they sold their wines as vino da tavola (table wine). These wines later became known as Super Tuscans before the DOC people relented and removed the white grape requirement. The composition rules have changed several times since then; today no white grapes are allowed, Sangiovese must comprise 80% of the blend, and even non traditional grapes such as Cabernet, Merlot, and Syrah are allowed (no more than 10% of any one)!

What does all this history have to do with this rosso? Verrazzano calls it a "Mini Tuscan" because it is a throwback to the earlier Chiantis; it uses Trebbiano and Malvasia in addition to Sangiovese Grosso (80%) and Canaiolo. One would expect a very light red wine, but this more medium weight due to the use of Sangiovese Grosso (the clone of Sangiovese used for Brunellos) instead of one of the many other Sangiovese clones typically used. This wine nice fruit and a soft texture. It even benefits from a little airing. Enjoy with a multitude of Italian dishes such as Sausage and Potatoes.

In 1958 the Cappellini family purchased the estate that had been the home of the explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano, who discovered lower New York Bay in the early 16th century. The Vererazzano family originally established the site in the 7th century! With 105 acres of vines on limestone-rich soil (unusual in the northern part of the classico zone), the Cappelinis also produce a terrific Chianti Classico (which we carry) and a Chianti Classico Riserva.

Previous Selection

E-Mail: beekman@conversent.net

Website Design ©Maron Marketing Consultants, Inc.