A little Bolgheri history.
First mentioned in 1075, in a papal bull by Pope Gregory VII, its name
derives from Bulgari (Italian for "Bulgarians"), due to the presence
of a military camp of Bulgarians, allies of the Lombards. Bolgheri lies in the foothills of the Colline
Metallifere, south of Bibbona.
Bolgheri DOC
The current set of DOC regulations for Bolgheri red wines
became approved in 1994. Before the creation of this DOC, the "Super
Tuscans" from the area were typically sold under the simpler designations
Vino da tavola or IGT Toscana.
The appellation rules determine that in Bolgheri Rosso and Bolgheri Rosé, Sangiovese may be utilized only to a degree of 70%, and in excess of this a wine must be classified IGT. Cabernet Sauvignon from 10 to 80%, Merlot, up to 80% and other local red varieties, up to 30%. Rosso must be aged for 24 months.
Ok, now let’s talk about this amazing wine!
Varvara Bolgheri The cellar, built in 1796, is located in
the middle of the town of Bolgheri. The
origin of the cellar is rooted in the ancient story of the della Gherardesca
family. Since the mid-nineties Federico Zileri Dal Verme has taken over the
family tradition, with the goal to produce wines that represent the highest
expression of Bolgheri's terroir, in terms of complexity, elegance and
longevity.
Against the backdrop of a 16th century Tuscan castle sits a
quiet vineyard. The grapes grown here make the Castello di Bolgheri wines, part
of the Super Tuscan collection.
These reds began their ascent post WWII, when marquis Mario
Incisa della Rocchetta first planted hectares of Cabernet Sauvignon and
Cabernet Franc on Italy’s northern coast. In 1994, the reds of this region,
known for their intense ruby color and great aging potential, earned DOC
certification. A year later, a consortium was formed to protect Bolgheri DOC
wines.
The wines of Castello di Bolgheri are a selection of
Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot from the best DOC
vineyards surrounding the castle. The Bolgheri castle, still owned by the same
family, is situated between the world-famous Ornellaia and Sassicaia wineries.
The wine remains in contact with skins for 25 to 30 days
before being stored for 20 months in a castle cellar dating back to the latter
1700s. This meticulous attention to wine production is why Castello di Bolgheri
consistently earns rave reviews from wine judges around the world
This wine you can begin to smell right as the cork is
pulled! Dark purple in the glass, the
aroma simply takes over Blackberry, Spice, Oak, and Leather.
Then you take that first sip. It has full body, with medium
acidity. On the savory and slightly fruity palate, velvety tannins support
blackberry jam, plum, black currant, black cherry, tobacco, star anise, clove,
and nutmeg flavors with just hints of black licorice and oak.
This is one of the best wines I’ve had in 5 years! Buy this one for sure.
Cost was $45.00
Cheers,
The Village Wino
All wines available at
Two Old Hags wine shop in Leesburg.
Unless otherwise noted
