Q: What do four brothers do when they inherit 50 acres of vineyards in the eastern section of Valpolicella from their father?
A: Buy 75 more acres and start a Winery of course.
They released their first wine in 1995 under the Tenuta Sant’Antonio label before launching a new project in 2006 under the Scaia label. If you are wondering about the name, it refers to the type of soil in the vineyards- a chalky, granular soil that falls apart easily. Scaia is a word in Veronese dialect for crumbs and imparts higher acidity and bolder fruit characters to the wine.
The palate is a light easy drinking red, soft, and welcoming, nice texture and balance with a friendly approachable attitude making this a midweek favorite with a pizza or a big bowl of pasta with some crusty Italian bread. Interesting layers of cherries, raspberries, pomegranate, and red plums with just a hint of blackberries, strawberries, and spices. Great early week drinking that will not break the bank. Nice length on the finish.
This meant to be drunk in its youth but I would be interested to see where it will be in 5 years.
Pairings should include Italian- pasta and pizza with red meat and chicken. I can also see this being enjoyed at Thanksgiving with Turkey, Ham, and Pork.
Marchese Antinori Chianti Classico Riserva 2021
I have tasted this several times before and it has always been a wine to put a smile on your face from the enticing nose to the welcoming palate, but I am getting ahead of myself.
The Antinori family has been making wine since 1385- that is 26 generations carrying the respect for tradition and the environment down through the centuries and forgive me for being just a touch sentimental, but I think you can taste that commitment in the wine. This is mostly Sangiovese with just a splash of Cabernet and Merlot.
The nose is seductive with enticing layers of dark cherries, red currants, with subtle notes of fields of flowers and a delicate sweetness.
The palate has a lot going on with interwoven layers of ripe cherries, plums, and raspberries, with secondary notes of blackberries, dried cooking herbs, earthy notes, mushrooms, and a subtle balsamic vinegar note. Wonderful structure and balance served up with elegance and restraint. This shares DNA with the iconic Tignanello, just far more approachable, and affordable.
Cellar time can range from 15 to 20 years, if you have the patience.
An absolute delight to drink. This is one of those wines that should be on your must try list.
Pairings should be Italian- Grilled Red meats and grilled vegetables, Chicken Cacciatore, Roasted Chicken with plenty of dried herbs, and of course charcuterie board with premier cuts of prosciutto, salami, and pancetta, along with garlic-stuffed olives and dried tomatoes, and Margherita pizza.
Vine to Table 