While the cliche that is Italian wine is a cliche within itself, if the net cost of a gratifying bottle costs only $11.50 retail, then a writing a meaningful review is necessary.
After beginning our journey in a quaint corner of the Pacific Northwest in the burgeoning vortex of Woodinville wine country and encountering a “Bully”, this week we use the trans-Atlantic jet ways and hopefully capture an early preview of Spring near the Italian town of Montepulciano, nestled in the epicenter of everything that is wine and assisted by the epitome of a Mediterranean climate.
Fortunately, the relationship Corte alla Flora vineyards, located in the province of Siena, has channeled in establishing a truly global distribution network in reaching out to North America is nothing short of amazing. Neither is the 2012 Podere del Giuggiolo, that features hints of cherry, anise, and plum, which accent a rich flavor. Guiggiolo in the Italian language translates smoothly in English to “farm of jujube”, which is an apt phrase in highlighting the nuances of the bottle. (Jujube are small fruits that resemble dates.)
The hint of the scent of fruit forward before the first sip offers a scintillating, yet tame perfumed preview of the dark wonders of the dominating Sangiovese construct. Stringent regulations on the production aspect of the Italian industry indicate that vinters must adhere to the standard that a majority grape variety is utilized in creating a vintage. As Corte alla Flora sit within the Chianti region, the minimum expectation per batch is at least 80% Sangiovese for area winemakers. While the creation is best paired with the simple accents of fresh and farm produced base appetizers, the bold flavors perpetuated from a potent 100% pure Sangiovese red, formulate a meaningful tandem combined with a traditional Italian home-cooked meal of lasagna or chicken parmesan. The only risk in purchasing a bottle is the reality that the money saved can possibly be used for intentions with less than savory consequences.
Corte alla Flora
2012 Podere del Guiggiolo
100% Sangiovese
Retail- $11.50
