Acidic. Long finish. — 2 months ago
Valdisanti Toscana 2020
Toscana IGT, Tenuta San Giovanni, Tuscany, Italy 🇮🇹
Overview
Named in honor of Pier Luigi Tolaini’s mother, Valdisanti is Tolaini’s signature Super Tuscan from Tenuta San Giovanni—right at the southern edge of Chianti Classico. The 2020 vintage is crafted entirely from estate-grown fruit and features a 50% Cabernet Sauvignon / 50% Cabernet Franc blend. This pure Bordeaux-style combination underscores both structure and aromatic vibrancy, reflecting both modern winemaking finesse and Tuscan terroir.  
Aromas & Flavors
Dark and compelling on the nose—black cherry, ripe cassis, and tobacco merge with aromatic notes of Mediterranean herbs, graphite, and leather. Layered hints of licorice and espresso build toward a rich, spice-kissed finish.   
Mouthfeel
Full-bodied and structured with firm yet supple tannins and lively acidity. The wine is generous on the palate yet balanced, leading to a long finish that reveals depth and elegant austerity.   
Winemaking Notes
Grapes are meticulously hand-harvested and optically sorted, then fermented on skins for 25 days in French oak vats. Aging continues for 16 months in French barriques, including 6 months on lees, drawing out both richness and aging potential.  
Food Pairing
Pairs brilliantly with Tuscan specialties like bistecca alla Fiorentina, wild boar ragù, or aged Pecorino Toscano. Its structure also complements urban grills, roasted game, or hearty stews.
Verdict
Valdisanti 2020 is a refined Super Tuscan that marries Bordeaux balance with Tuscan character. With its 50/50 Cabernet blend and meticulous winemaking, this wine is both graceful and powerful—a true standout for collectors and dinner tables alike. It will cellar beautifully over the next 10–15 years. A la salute!! — a month ago
Hampton liquor $22? — 16 days ago
Old school showing restraint and tradition. However, the fruit is a bit muted cherry and takes a backseat to earthy tones of forest floor, leather, and dried herbs. Tannins are firm yet balanced, and the finish carries a touch of tar and rose.
A solid entry level Barolo. — 2 months ago
First 2024 wine!! This is really excellent - haven’t had this grape (albana) before. Orange but in the way that I like - no overly “natural” funk and instead just excellent stony fruit and some great grip. Very juicy and almost savory with a long finish. Great value at $22. — 3 months ago
Pinotman /// Andreas
Trader Joe’s Classic!!!! This usually stinks. But not in this stellar 2021 vintage. Not super complex but more on the elegant side. I would think this will age for 10 years or so. After 24 hours even better and more convincing. Quite tannic! Grab it by the case while it is there the 2022 will be awful (my prediction). And at 20 bucks…….. — 18 days ago