Steve Rayman
2006 Aia Vecchia Lagone (Tuscany, Italy)
2006 Aia Vecchia Lagone (15.99)
“Aia Vecchia’s 2006 Lagone is a great value in Bordeaux-styled Tuscan red. The grapes are sourced from the same vineyards as Aia Vecchia’s $40 flaghip red Sorugo (92WS) but sells for half the price. The very skilled winemaking team really hit their stride with the 2006 which received nice reviews from the Wine Advocate’s Antonio Galloni and the Wine Spectator who described it as “Full-bodied, with soft, velvety tannins and a long, rich finish…” I would add that there is nice acidity keeping the wine fresh and allowing it to drink well for several more years and this really does feel like a much more expensive wine.”
91 Points, Steve Rayman
Staff Selection, March 2010
2007 Argiano NC Non Confunditur (Tuscany)
2007 Argiano NC Non Confunditor (Tuscany) - 19.99
“Argiano’s 2007 NC is a Tuscan blend that shows exciting power, with the inherent sweetness of the Merlot component acting as a bridge between the firm earthiness of the Sangiovese, the spicy blackcurrant of the Cabernet and the warm red fruit of the Syrah. The result is a generous, round red wine for early to mid-term drinking with aromas of currant and generous fruit flavors, which are versatile enough to develop more depth in the bottle. It is an excellent value and was chosen as one of the top 100 wines of the year by the Wine Spectator.” (90WS)
90 Points, Steve Rayman
February 2010
2006 Frescobaldi Nipozzano Chianti Rufina Riserva (Tuscany)
2006 Frescobaldi Nipozzano Chianti Rufina Riserva ($19.99 or $17.99 by the case)
The Castello di Nipozzano, built in the year 1000 as a defensive fortress now houses the wine cellar, where the Frescobaldi estate reds are produced and aged. The estate lies in the heart of the small northern Chianti Rufina growing zone where the soil is rich in clay and limestone creating the ideal terroir for the production of great Chianti. The 2006 Nippozano features focused bright cherry aromas and flavors as well as excellent minerality and focus. This is top tier Chianti for a very reasonable price.
91 Points, Steve Rayman
January 2010
2005 Borra Fusion Red (Lodi, California)
2005 Borra Fusion ($13.99 or $12.59 by the case!)
“Primarily Syrah with Petite Sirah, Alicante Bouchet and Zinfandel, Borra’s Fusion features powerful aromas of ripe fruits, including berries and plums, with delicate notes of vanilla. Big and rich on the palate, the wine combines softer tannins with a long and luscious finish. Ideal with roasted meats, wild game, or a variety of pizzas.”
92 Points, Steve Rayman, Email: Steve@b-21.com, Direct #: (727) 722-9103