While the iconic Super Tuscans have firmly established their status among Italy’s elite wines, Tuscany brims with lesser-known treasures just waiting to be uncovered.
James Lawrence takes us on a journey through the rise of these celebrated wines over the last century, highlighting their profound impact on Italy’s winemaking traditions.
Innovative Blends and Winemaking Techniques
At the forefront of this evolution is Mazzei’s Siepi, a distinctive blend crafted from Sangiovese and Merlot.
This innovative creation marks a bold new direction for Tuscan wine.
Influential wine authority Hugh Johnson has remarked on the significant progress in Tuscany, likening it to the remarkable developments witnessed in Napa Valley.
The transformation in winemaking techniques, including the adoption of smaller barrels and shortened aging periods, has enabled producers to exercise greater control over essential factors like tannin levels and oxidation — both critical components for producing top-tier wines.
The Complexity of Identity
However, establishing a solid identity for these wines remains complex.
Italy’s vast network of DOC and DOCG designations, combined with its rich variety of grapes, raises important questions about what defines a Super Tuscan.
Some critics argue that this trend represents a departure from traditional Italian winemaking, while others celebrate it as a showcase of regional diversity and artistic expression.
A Call for Exploration
As producers focus more on unique, single-vineyard identities, Tuscany’s wine landscape flourishes with variety.
Today’s wine lovers are encouraged to move beyond the familiar Super Tuscan labels and delve into the captivating stories and qualities that characterize modern Tuscan wines.
Whether exploring the offerings of family-owned vineyards like Siepi or lesser-known estates, the enchanting narratives behind these bottles add an exciting layer to their appeal.
Source: Wine-searcher
