The Fourth of July is a great time to celebrate.   I enjoy the traditional aspects of holiday picnics, carnivals, and fireworks.  However, when I have a glass of wine in hand and begin to muse, the word “tradition” takes on a different connotation.  I know that every tradition began as an innovation that may not have been initially appreciated.  Yet as time passes, this rebellious idea becomes acceptable based upon merit and subsequent achievements. 

The vineyards of Toscana Rosso have been the epiphany of rebellion in Italian winemaking.  For those of you who speak Italian, I do apologize, and I know that it should be Rossa di Toscana.  As so often happens, marketing speak defeats correct language usage.

You may also see Toscana Rosso wines referred to as Toscano IGT Rosso.  Let’s break down what this means:

Toscano:   Tuscany, the home of traditional wine making in Italy.

IGT (Indicazione Geografica Tipica):  This term was created for the “new” wines of Italy, those that had broken the strict, old wine laws but were wines of great quality. Before the IGT was created, quality “Super Tuscan” wines were labeled vino di tavola (Table Wine).  IGT is somewhat in between the classifications of vino di tavola and the DOC and DOCG which are classifications you may be more familiar of on your favorite Brunello or Chianti.

Rosso:  Red.  Traditionally, Tuscan red wines (Chianti, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Brunello di Montalcino) were predominantly made from Sangiovese, a grape variety originating in Italy whose name derives from sanguis Jovis, “the blood of Jove”.  Young Sangiovese has fresh fruity flavors of strawberry and a little spiciness, but it readily takes on oaky, even tarry, flavors when aged in barrels.  

Today many of these wines are coveted and collected fetching prices equal to fine Bordeaux.  Here are four Super Tuscans  / Toscana IGT Rossos that deliver the goods and don’t dent the wallet.    

Sonnino 2007 “Leone Rosso” ~ $11.99

A blend of Syrah and Sangiovese with a deep ruby color.   Redolent with fresh fruit and a touch of spice.

Carpinetto 2006 “Dogajolo” ~ $13.99

A blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet that spends time in small French oak barrels.  Inky blackish-purple with a garnet edge, it offers pleasant, fruit-forward aromas of black cherries and cranberries lifted with subtle spice.

Enrico Santini  2006 “Poggio Al Moro” ~ $28.99

Made from a blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet, Syrah and Merlot.  The wine has an intense ruby red color with slightly violet highlights; the bouquet is spicy with notes of cherries, strawberries, raspberries and black currants.  Elegant and highly concentrated on the palate with velvety yet persistent tannins.

Luce della Vite 2004 “Lucente”  ~ $31.99  

A joint project begun by Robert Mondavi and the Frescobaldi family of Tuscany.  A blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet.  A lively purple in appearance.  The nose releases rich impressions of fruit, with notes of black currant, blueberry, dried plum and a subtle touch of chocolate.

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