The ‘LA QUERCIOLINA’ farm is situated in an excellent position in the Maremma’s hinterland. In 1999, when Lorenzo and Luciano Sassetti bought the farm, it was in a state of abandonment. In 2000 they began work to reclaim the land and replant the vineyards, using the original varieties of vines. The brother’s project followed the philosophy of the family who has already been producing wine in the adjacent Montalcino area for no less than four generations.
The 2007 La Querciolina Istriciaia delivers beautiful fresh blackberries, dark cherry, anise, tobacco and floral wrapped in gorgeous round polished tannins backed by a solid structure. There is a nice transition into the finish as the fruit carries over seamlessly and then just lingers there. This is made in a modern style, in fact when I tasted this double-blind I was thinking more toward a Cabernet blend at first, not 80% Sangiovese, 20% Ciliegiolo! Wow, rolling in around $20 this is an outstanding value and should not be missed! (Drink 2012-2018) - July, 2012. (JD)