2005 Tenuta di Valgiano, Colline Lucchesi Rosso

Compared to the denser, cellar-worthy 2004 Tenuta, the 2005 is unequivocally more perfumed with pretty red-fruited Sangiovese high-notes, yet as ever finely structured and intricately detailed. Facilitated by fantastic terroir overlooking Lucca and brought to life through biodynamics, the unorthodox blend of Franco-Italian grapes (60% Sangiovese 20% Syrah 20% Merlot) dates back to the early 19^th century, to a time when Napoléon Bonaparte's sister Elisa governed this French protectorate; something not lost on the team at Valgiano. Delicious with chicken paella.
(David Berry Green, BBR Buyer)

60% Sangiovese, 20% Syrah, 20% Merlot. Sweet and generous. Blackcurrant and liquorice notes with an undertow of cocoa. Hints of the Rhône and a New- World ripeness but still ineffably elegant and stylish.
(Tamlyn Currin - jancisrobinson.com - 25 Mar 2010)