Double Gold - 2017 American Fine Wines Comp.
Best of Class - 2017 California State Fair Comp.
In the 1970s and 80s, Italian wine underwent a quality revolution, especially in Tuscany, where quality-minded producers bucked government regulations and planted the grapes that they felt would perform best in their unique terroir. The resulting wines were often blends of French and Italian grapes. In California our own quality revolution was happening around the same time, but mostly revolved around French grapes, and it is only recently that more focus has been put on finding land suited to Italian varieties. One of those leading the charge for quality Italian varietal wines in California is Michael Muscardini, a frequent WineHeist collaborator. This wine was made in the Super Tuscan style and barrel aged for fourteen months. The varietals were fermented separately and then blended four months before bottling. 52% Napa Sangiovese, 24% Deerfield Syrah, and 24% Cassata Cabernet Sauvignon.
The 2012 Tesoro is deep, dark and inky, this new blend starts with lofty aromas of wild berries, ripe red fruits, fresh violets, cocoa, fine leather, and cigar box. On the palate, the rich flavors are highlighted by intensive notes of brambly blackberry, dark cherry, cassis, black currant, roasted plum, cocoa, vanilla, savory spices, smooth and silky texture, with a long, engaging finish. Drinks well now and will for another decade. A fantastic wine to pair with slow-roasted pork, duck, beef tenderloin, hearty stews, and Osso Bucco.
Winemaker: Michael Muscardini
Appellation: Sonoma County
Varietals: 51% Sangiovese, 25% Syrah, and 24% Cabernet Sauvignon
Barrel Aging: 36 months
Harvested: September 7, 2012
Bottled: May 12, 2016
Alcohol: 14.8%
Cases Produced: 614
Gold Medal
Light pink in color with aromas of watermelon, cranberry, orange rind, and fresh spring flowers that leap from the glass. The palate offers more peach, strawberry, and melon, with an intriguing note of rose and hibiscus. It's crisp with just the perfect hint of red fruit, and delicate whisper of strawberry that gives goosebumps.
90 Points
Rich and voluptuous with ripe raspberry, cherry, and plum, layered with hints of lavender, fig compote, and exotic spice. Concentrated and complex, the palate is a balanced interplay cocoa, and a hint of espresso, creating both richness and intrigue. Vibrant acidity and silky tannins that contribute heft and length that coat the palate with luscious ripeness that keeps on giving.
94 Points
A classic expression of coastal influenced Chardonnay with aromas of honey, apple chutney, lime blossom, and gentle Indian spice box undertones. A big juicy entry on the palate, showing a silky texture with excellent tension and structure, ending with a complex, layered finish.
95 Points
Lofty aromas of dark cherries, blackberries, and plum mingle with hints of baking spices and a touch of violet. The palate reveals luscious flavors of ripe berries, complemented by notes of black pepper and a subtle earthiness. With well-integrated tannins and a long lingering finish.
92 Points
Inviting aromas of ripe cherry, strawberry, and pomegranate. The palate unfolds with layered flavors of black cherry, raspberry cordial, vanilla bean and spice, where focused tannins envelop, leading to a rich red fruit finish with blue fruit undertones.
Gold Medal
Generously packed with black cherry, cola, cassis, and plum that all intermingle together in a creamy, velvety texture with great layering, finishing with delightful notes of oak and spice. Persistent, well-defined structure, wonderfully balanced.
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