Contucci Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Pietrarossa Docg 2020

Song: Rock You like a Hurricane by Scorpions. The history of Montepulciano and Vino Nobile is deeply intertwined with the legacy of this historic family, whose presence in the town is documented as far back as the year 1008 (yes, over a thousand years ago!). Viticulturists and agriculturists since the early Middle Ages, the family owns the iconic Palazzo Contucci, located right in the main square of Montepulciano. The first brick of the palace was laid in 1517 under the guidance of Sangallo the Elder, one of the most renowned architects of the Renaissance. To this day, the cellars of the palace continue to serve as spaces for winemaking and aging, providing a unique and fascinating setting that is both anachronistic and world-famous. Pietrarossa is a single-vineyard rich in clay and iron schists, giving rise to the most Rock'n'Roll wine in the Contucci lineup- A wine that pulses with energy and captivates with its notes of withered violets, red rose, sour cherry, maraschino, blackberry, a touch of sage, and a hint of blood orange. On the palate, Pietrarossa is exuberant and energetic, eager to burst forth with a savory flavor that is rare for Montepulciano, featuring an electrifying tannin and a lingering finish of sour cherry and black tea. A wine that seems to shout, "Here I am, rocking you like a hurricane!" 80% Sangiovese, 10% Canaiolo, 10% Colorino. 1bt in Shipment . Drink through 2025-2030. Open 2h before. Price $32

Contucci Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Mulinvecchio Docg 2020

Song: I Put a Spell on You by Nina Simone. Mulinvecchio is a 2-acre vineyard that gives rise to the most ‘Blues' of the Contucci wines—a seductive and velvety Sangiovese of extraordinary elegance and intensity. With its deep ruby red hue, the wine offers a bouquet of red roses, maraschino, blackberry candy, and delicate spices of chocolate, tobacco, leather, and tea, along with an intriguing balsamic touch of eucalyptus and sage. On the palate, Mulinvecchio is precise and refined, displaying great elegance and the finesse of a Blues ballad of exceptional quality. It begins fresh, then progresses with a crescendo of red-fleshed fruits and tea, culminating in a round and indulgent tannin of masterful craftsmanship. This wine reveals the gentle side of Vino Nobile, showcasing its true depth and character, best paired with Nina Simone’s iconic and unmistakable voice. 80% Sangiovese, 10% Canaiolo, 10% Colorino. 1bt in Shipment . Drink through 2025-2030. Open 2h before. Price $39

Tenuta Carretta Barbaresco Cascina Bordino Docg 2021

Song: Hotel California by Eagles. Tenuta Carretta is a historic estate in Roero, the heart of Piedmont, with documented origins dating back to 1467, when it was already renowned for its wine production. Owned by the Miroglio family, also known for their eponymous fashion brand, Tenuta Carretta has vineyards across various areas of Langhe. The estate produces top-quality wines that stand out for their finesse and authenticity, with exceptional expressions of both Barolo and Barbaresco. With its bright ruby red color, this Barbaresco showcases the complexity of the exceptional 2021 vintage. It opens with intense and elegant notes of violets, cherries in spirit, dried apricot, and subtle hints of pinewood and sandalwood. A quintessential Piemontese character emerges with aromas of high-quality underbrush, mushroom, and truffle, rounded off by a signature touch of incense that has become the hallmark of the winery. On the palate, the wine prevails with an aristocratic combination of power and elegance, with a mouthwatering taste of sour cherry and red berries, a sapid touch and an exceptionally polished tannin, for an incredible overall balance and quality. The pairing I have chosen is a timeless rock classic for a wine that embodies both history and elegance. 100% Nebbiolo. 1bt in Shipment. Drink Through 2025-2032. Open 3h before. Price $45

Tenuta Carretta Barolo Cascina Ferrero Docg 2020

Song: My Favorite Things by John Coltrane. This quintessential and traditional Nebbiolo embodies all the Jazz-like characteristics of a great Barolo, from its light ruby red color that makes the glass sparkle, to its elegant bouquet of wild roses, plum, tart cherry, and subtle hints of mushroom—typical of Barolo. Notes of pinewood and a delicate touch of incense and pine complete the aromatic profile. On the palate, this Barolo is luminous, vibrant, and aristocratic, with a delicate interplay of red fruits and wild roses, perfectly integrated tannins, and a lingering finish of mushroom and pomegranate. The wine unfolds in a crescendo of flavors of unparalleled quality, typical of the finest wines. A great Barolo is like a beautiful and intelligent woman, surrounded by an aura of mystery and charm, with elegance and finesse that are truly unmatched. An enigma that will never be fully solved, its allure lies in the beauty of the discovery. 100% Nebbiolo. 1bt in Shipment. Drink Through 2025-2033. Open 4h before. Price $47

Poderi Sanguineto I e II Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Docg 2021

Song: Mother by Pink Floyd. Dora and Patrizia are pillars of Vino Nobile, and one of my greatest joys is spending time with the two central figures of this enchanting world called Sanguineto, where time is measured by the rhythms of Mother Nature. Here, geese, chickens, cats, and dogs live in harmony, surrounded by a meticulously tended vineyard. Dora's hands bear the weight of decades of hard work, and her slender shoulders carry the legacy of generations of farmers. From them, she inherited not only sharp wit and empirical knowledge but also a deep respect for the land—principles that lie at the heart of Sanguineto. In summary, Sanguineto's wines hold a special place in my heart. Their wines are soulful, expressive, and free from any unnecessary sophistication. It is always a deeply emotional experience, for me, to savor the wines crafted by Dora and Patrizia. A powerful, inebriating Vino Nobile, with notes of black currants, black cherries, plum, potpourri, withered red roses, lavender, and subtle spices of cocoa, leather, and tobacco of the highest quality. On the palate, the generosity of the 2021 vintage shines through. This Vino Nobile is rich and succulent, yet retains the enjoyability and smoothness that define Sanguineto, finishing with a perfectly round tannin of majestic elegance and a lustful aftertaste of blueberry and jasmine tea. A wine that always leaves an indelible mark on my soul, much like one of my favorite albums by Pink Floyd, which offers a perfect pairing for the senses. 80% Sangiovese, 20% Canaiolo & Mammolo . 1bt in Shipment. Drink Through: 2025-2029. Open 3h before. Price $40

Poderi Sanguineto I e II Rosso di Montepulciano Doc 2023

Song: Dancing Barefoot by Patti Smith. This Rosso di Montepulciano, born from the most challenging vintage of the past two decades, is one of the purest expressions of Sanguineto’s style. A still life painting of red fruits, a vibrant Sangiovese with a distinct personality. Surprisingly intense and structured for a 2023, the wine opens with an aromatic burst of red flowers, red currants, raspberries, maraschino, and sour cherries. The palate is lively and joyful, with a seductive freshness of red berries, a solid structure, and creamy tannins, all culminating in a beautifully balanced finish. It’s a special wine that holds a cherished place among my all-time favorites. 80% Sangiovese, 20% Canaiolo & Mammolo . 1bt in Shipment. Drink Through: 2025-2027. Open 1h before. Price $31

Verbena Brunello di Montalcino Docg 2019

Song: Paradise City by Guns N’ Roses. Verbena, a charming family-run estate managed by Luca Nannetti, upholds the family tradition and proudly stands as one of the ambassadors of boutique wineries in Montalcino. Their solid and structured Brunello di Montalcino is unmatched in terms of value. With a red ruby color with good concentration, the wine presents a voluptuous and intense bouquet of maraschino liqueur, blackberries, lavender, geranium, chocolate, coffe beans, rosemary and tobacco. The palate is expansive, captivating, and full-bodied, beginning with a rich and succulent maraschino note, transitioning to a groovy and firm tannin that grips the back of the lips, and finishing with a lingering essence of black currants and jasmine tea. It's as if a Brunello is playing Hard Rock music. 100% Sangiovese. 1bt in Shipment. Drink Through 2025-2030. Open 3h Before. Price $44

Canalicchio di Sopra Rosso di Montalcino Doc 2022

Song: I Say a Little Prayer by Aretha Franklin. The three Ripaccioli siblings represent the third generation of Canalicchio di Sopra, continuing a long farming tradition in Montalcino that spans several generations. The winery itself, located in the Northeastern side of Brunelloland, was founded in 1962 when their grandfather, Primo Pacenti, one of the ‘founding members’ of the Brunello Consortium, acquired the estate. Francesco Ripaccioli, the latest-generation winemaker, is the guardian of a rich Sangiovese tradition, embracing an Old School philosophy of minimal intervention in the cellar to preserve the authenticity and the character of this remarkable terroir. Crafted from the estate's younger vineyards, this Rosso offers a perfect introduction to the greatness of Montalcino. It boasts an inviting bouquet of ripe cherries, black currants, and floral notes of violets, red roses, and orange blossoms, alongside intriguing hints of underbrush, licorice, black tea, and eucalyptus. The palate is generous, yet elegant, with the lively rhythm typical of young Sangiovese, complemented by a savory aftertaste and a long, succulent finish of red and black currants. With a Jazz/Blues personality, this expressive wine combines the lightheartedness of a Rosso di Montalcino with the depth and complexity of a Brunello. 100% Sangiovese. 1bt in Shipment. Drink Through 2025-2027. Open 2h before. Price $35

Capezzana Villa di Capezzana Carmignano Docg 2020

Song: Dazed and Confused by Led Zeppelin. Produced by the Contini Bonacossi family since 1926, this wine is a symbol of Carmignano, the region located west of Florence where Cabernet Sauvignon was first planted nearly 500 years ago at the behest of Caterina de’ Medici. Over time, the ‘Uva Francesa’, ancient name of Cabernet, has become a local variety, historically blended with Sangiovese. With a deep ruby red color and purple highlights, the wine showcases the power of the terroir of Carmignano, offering a robust bouquet of blueberries, dark cherries, withered violets, geranium, and spices such as chocolate, cigar tobacco, scorched earth, cloves, and a subtle hint of roasted red pepper typical of Cabernet Sauvignon. The palate is expansive and succulent, with an explosion of blackberries and dark cherries, complemented by grippy yet creamy tannins and a lingering, savory finish that leaves the palate satisfied by its depth. Best paired with rock music, especially the introspective and dark tones of the first album by the greatest rock band of all time. 80% Sangiovese, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. 1bt in Shipment. Drink Through 2025-2031. Open 2h before. Price $36

Castello dei Rampolla Chianti Classico Docg 2021

Song:Uprising by Muse. The Castle has been under the ownership of the family since 1739, but it was in 1965 that the Rampolla family transformed the estate into a modern winery. With the guidance of the legendary Italian winemaker Giacomo Tachis, Rampolla became a symbol of modernity and innovation, blending Sangiovese with international varietals. Pioneers of biodynamic farming, the estate transitioned to a more regenerative and sustainable production in 1994, demonstrating a forward-thinking mentality well ahead of its time. This blend of Sangiovese, with a touch of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, presents a modern take on Chianti Classico, boasting an intense ruby red color and aromas of tart cherry, blueberry, withered violets, chocolate, a hint of eucalyptus, and a touch of sweet cinnamon spice. On the palate, the wine reveals the vibrant freshness typical of a classic Chianti, enhanced by the “international” flair of Merlot’s cherry jam and the grippy yet refined tannins of Cabernet Sauvignon, achieving perfect balance and a long, savory finish with a bold, satisfying push. A Rock personality with a contemporary look. 90% Sangiovese, 5% Merlot, 5% Cab Sauvignon. 1bt in Shipment. Drink Through 2025-2030. Open 2h before. Price $35

Castello dei Rampolla Liù Toscana Igt 2021

Song: Wicked Game by Chris Isaac. Liù is a symbol of the contemporary approach embraced by this historic estate, a Merlot with a distinctly Tuscan character. Its intense purple hue leads into a peppery personality, offering an intriguing bouquet of dark cherry, blueberry, red pepper, lavender, incense, and an exotic touch of pink pepper. On the palate, it is vibrant, playful, and refreshingly pleasant, bursting with flavors of black currants and black tea. Rhythmic and succulent, the wine finishes with a bold, indulgent tannin and a lingering finish, carrying a 'Chianti-like' energy. It’s the perfect fusion of true Tuscan character and French elegance—like a stunning Tuscan woman draped in a stylish Chanel dress. 100% Merlot. 1bt in Shipment. Drink Through 2025-2029. Open 2h before. Price $48

Il Barlettaio Chianti Classico Docg 2019

Song: Thunderstruck by AC/DC. Francesco Bertozzi, whose family has owned the estate since the late 1800s, now runs Il Barlettaio alongside his wife Paola. This small organic estate, located in the heart of Chianti Classico in Radda, produces only around 10,000 bottles per year. As a Rock and Roll enthusiast, I consider Radda the Mecca of Sangiovese, where the wines are vibrant, full of energy, and brimming with life. Francesco and Paola intentionally wait several extra years before releasing their wines, allowing time to tame the bold character of Radda. This Chianti opens with intense aromas of maraschino, blood orange, raspberry, candied orange peel, cocoa, and a distinctly Tuscan touch of sage, complemented by a final nuance of carob. On the palate, it’s clean, defined, and energetic, with a Rock and Roll personality that speaks to the terroir. The wine offers a relentless freshness of red-fleshed fruits, vibrant tannins, and a lingering, savory finish. Gluttonous, electric and dynamic, free from any pretension, Il Barlettaio captures the true essence of Radda in every sip. Their Sangiovese has rightfully become a hidden gem among Tuscan wine lovers. 100% Sangiovese. 1bt in Shipment. Drink Through 2025-2029. Open 2h before. Price $35