Lucas & Lewellen
Toccata Mandolina Riserva Red Blend
Santa Barbara County, Central Coast, California, USA
Toccata – Riserva Red Blend – 2020
Santa Barbara County – California, USA 🇺🇸
Overview:
A Super-Tuscan–inspired red blend from Santa Barbara County, built on a Cabernet Sauvignon–led composition of Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Merlot, Freisa, and Petit Verdot. Italian varieties thrive in the cooler Los Alamos Valley sites, while French varieties contribute structure from warmer hillside vineyards, creating a rounded, balanced wine that reflects both Old World inspiration and regional California expression.
Aromas & Flavors:
Ripe red and black cherry, plum, dried herbs, subtle baking spice, and a touch of earthy nuance. Sangiovese and Freisa add savory lift while Cabernet anchors the fruit core.
Mouthfeel:
Medium-plus body with supple, polished tannins and integrated acidity. Smooth and approachable, yet structured enough to hold its shape at the table.
Food Pairings:
Grilled meats, herb-roasted chicken, lamb chops, mushroom risotto, pasta with tomato-based sauces, and semi-aged Italian cheeses.
Verdict:
A thoughtfully composed, approachable Super-Tuscan–style blend that balances complexity with drinkability. Versatile, food-friendly, and expressive of Santa Barbara County’s diverse terroirs.
🍷 Personal Pick Highlight:
I enjoy this wine for its balance and versatility, it delivers Italian-inspired nuance without heaviness, making it an easy yet thoughtful choice for casual dinners or relaxed evenings when I want complexity without intensity.
Toccata – Riserva Red Blend – 2020
Santa Barbara County – California, USA 🇺🇸
Overview:
A Super-Tuscan–inspired red blend from Santa Barbara County, built on a Cabernet Sauvignon–led composition of Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Merlot, Freisa, and Petit Verdot. Italian varieties thrive in the cooler Los Alamos Valley sites, while French varieties contribute structure from warmer hillside vineyards, creating a rounded, balanced wine that reflects both Old World inspiration and regional California expression.
Aromas & Flavors:
Ripe red and black cherry, plum, dried herbs, subtle baking spice, and a touch of earthy nuance. Sangiovese and Freisa add savory lift while Cabernet anchors the fruit core.
Mouthfeel:
Medium-plus body with supple, polished tannins and integrated acidity. Smooth and approachable, yet structured enough to hold its shape at the table.
Food Pairings:
Grilled meats, herb-roasted chicken, lamb chops, mushroom risotto, pasta with tomato-based sauces, and semi-aged Italian cheeses.
Verdict:
A thoughtfully composed, approachable Super-Tuscan–style blend that balances complexity with drinkability. Versatile, food-friendly, and expressive of Santa Barbara County’s diverse terroirs.
🍷 Personal Pick Highlight:
I enjoy this wine for its balance and versatility, it delivers Italian-inspired nuance without heaviness, making it an easy yet thoughtful choice for casual dinners or relaxed evenings when I want complexity without intensity.
