Bolgheri is a dynamic Tuscan wine region known for its iconic wineries, but amidst the scenic vineyards and landscapes lie a growing number of small, up-and-coming estates worth discovering. Here, I’m sharing tasting notes for four wines I recently enjoyed from Bolgheri’s smaller producers that should certainly be on your radar.
Four wines to taste from Bolgheri
Dario Di Vaira Winery
Wine: Clarice, DOC Bolgheri Rosso – Dario Di Vaira – Bolgheri, Tuscany – 2021
“Clarice” 2021 is a wine with an incredible value which expresses the passion and inspiration of Dario Di Vaira who represents the third generation of the Di Vaira family in Bolgheri. In the glass it shows a distinctive floral nose mixed with hints of dark cherry and balsamic scents. Medium bodied with pleasant ripe red fruit developing on the palate. Precise and juicy with medium tannic structure and a fresh aftertaste. An excellent representative of the Mediterranean character.
Chiappini Winery
Guado de’ Gemoli – Bolgheri Superiore 2021
The colour is deep ruby with a compact rim. Pronounced intensity of ripe red fruit mixed with notes of chocolate and tobacco. Full body wine with good freshness. Present delicate tannins and quite long aftertaste. Great wine. It matches perfectly with Pecorino cheeses and Tuscan ham.
Podere Conca Winery
Apistós Costa Toscana Igt 2021 – Bolgheri – Livorno -Tuscany
The 3000 bottles of Apistós, from the ancient Greek meaning “incredible”, represent a charming monovarietal Cabernet Franc from the tiny Podere Conca (conch). The grapes ferment in concrete vats for 30 days, the wine then ages in mixed oak barriques for 16 months. The 2021 shows a dark ruby colour, a pronounced aroma of blackberry, balsamic notes of eucalyptus with light oaky aftertones. In the mouth it is rich, well-structured with a lively acidity and savoury, finish.
Podere Il Castellaccio Winery
Valénte, IGT Toscana – Podere Il Castellaccio – Bolgheri, Tuscany – 2020
The first vintage of Valente in 2011, marked the philosophy of the winery through the reviving of ancient varieties that is inextricably linked to the tradition of Tuscan wine. The wine is a blend of 70% Sangiovese and 30% a mix of Foglia Tonda and Pugnitello. It appears bright ruby in the core with paler rims. The nose is fruity and dynamic with a hint of spiciness. In the mouth it expresses a medium body and soft tannins. Dry and fresh, it heads towards a fragrant, vivacious finish.