Tenuta di Arceno is an ancient Tuscan estate with a diverse portfolio of the highest quality wines across two classification levels – three wines centered on the native Sangiovese grape in the Chianti Classico DOCG collection; and three wines celebrating the estate’s international varieties under the Toscana IGT designation. The estate is situated at the southernmost-edge of Chianti Classico in the butterfly-shaped commune of Castelnuovo Berardenga, closest in proximity to Siena and rightfully referred to as ‘the most Senese Chianti Classico. It’s home to other world-renowned producers and stylistically distinct from counterparts to the north.

The 2017 Valadorna Toscana has been aging beautifully since it was released. It is soft, pleasant, harmonious and reveals a classic Tuscan character. A blend of 60% Merlot, 32% Cabernet Franc, 4% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Petit Verdot. It will hold up against the Right Bank wines of Pomerol. I am an unapologetic Italian and huge fan of this wine!

In color the wine reveals a lovely deep garnet. The nose is so complex it took a few minutes to try to take it all in and sort it out. It begins with rich dark fruit, black cherry, blueberry, and ripe plum lingering in the background. Within are notes of rose petal, cigar box, rustic spices, pencil lead and undertones of earthiness. The flavors are expansive and are so alive it dances across your palate with chewy tannins but without edges. The acidity is lively, but integrated giving the wine incredible balance that lifts the Tuscan red to a mouth-feel so delicious, you want to go back in for more. The finish is long, harmonious, and memorable. The 2017 Valadorna Toscana is a total joy to drink now, but if you are that patient, the wine will hold up for years of cellar time. Grazie per averci presentato questo meraviglioso vino Toscano!

By Perry Miroballi