WEEK SIXTEEN FEATURED WINE: JULY 7-11


La Braccesca, Sabazio, Rosso di Montepulciano 2018

It’s the season for chillable Italian reds!

Red wines made in this fresh, vibrant style have bright, brambly flavors that pop when the temperature rises.

La Braccesca Sabazio, from south of Chianti in Tuscany has the freshness associated with the traditional Sangiovese variety together with vibrant aromas characteristic of Merlot in a unique expression of the centuries-old Montepulciano territory.

The wines name comes from Sabatino Lulli, known as “Sabazio”, a monk from the Montepulciano Abbey who coached others in how to produce wine from the local grape varieties.

The nose is fresh with floral notes of violets and roses which balances the typical aromas of cherries. The palate is fresh and elegant with silky and pleasurable tannins. The finish and aftertaste are tasty, with lingering sensations which recall the aromas first felt on the nose. A great wine to serve after 30-40 minutes in the fridge!

The La Braccesca estate has 1,037 acres and is divided into two main blocks: The historical part of the estate, which is situated in the Montepulciano area, and a newer block situated at the foot of the hills around Cortona, the site of Frances Mayes' beautiful book, Under the Tuscan Sun.