A blend of Syrah (70%) and Grenache, the 2010 Tinata opens to savory and meaty tones of smoked bacon, white pepper and dark fruit or prune. This is a lovely wine with enormous richness and intensity that runs straight through. That generous opulence is supported by soft tannin and a rich, velvety mouthfeel. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2022.
We’ve all heard the story before: Wealthy businessman falls in love with fine wine and sets out to make an icon wine of his own. Founded by German-born Swiss entrepreneur Georg Weber, Monteverro is the kind of estate you’d expect to find in Napa Valley where big money regularly rolls into town. Michel Rolland is a consultant and the underground barrel room is colossal, both in terms of investment and aspiration. Here’s the catch: Mr. Weber did not choose Napa. Instead, he settled on the trendy beach town of Capalbio in southern Tuscany that is known for many things, but not wine. Showing a level of moxie so high it touches peaks of brilliance and insanity, he planted his winemaking flag here. Given the excellent results, I can only say “chapeau.”
Importer: Opici Wines , www.opiciwines.com