MANTELLASSI, "QUERCIOLAIA" ALICANTE, MAREMMA TOSCANA

TUSCANY, ITALY 2013

While distinguished names such as Biondi Santi, Frescobaldi and Mazzei settle into their recently purchased Maremma properties on the Tuscan coast, estates like Sassicaia and Ornellaia continue to excel here, producing extraordinary modern expressions that are some of the most expensive wines in all of Italy. As iconic as these wines are, it is the traditional varieties of Sangiovese and the local Alicante that remain the backbone of Maremma, often producing some of the region’s most refined and elegant styles of wine – all at price points that don’t break the bank. One of the top traditional producers in the area is the Mantellassi family, who until recently has been relatively undiscovered by wine lovers here in the States. Now that the family’s secret is out, their best bottlings are suddenly in-demand, with their limited allocations getting more difficult to secure. Fortunately today we were able to acquire a small quantity of their 100% Alicante 2013 “Querciolaia,” a 92-point beauty that showcases tradition and approachability while still overdelivering for its price.

The Mantellassi family winery was established in 1960 with just four hectares of land around the communes of Magliano and Scansano in the heart of Maremma. As one of the of region’s pioneers, the family remains defenders of tradition, producing exceptional expressions of Sangiovese and Alicante while other wineries focus on non-traditional varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah. One of their first grape varieties planted, Alicante has flourished for the family, prompting them to produce their single variety wine “Querciolaia” starting in 1977. Alicante, found throughout Spain and considered a local variety of Grenache, takes advantage of the temperate climate of Maremma. As an early ripening variety, the grape thrives in even the most difficult vintages and excels in the calcareous volcanic soils of the family’s hillside vineyards. Producing complex and rich flavors, Alicante is an excellent alternative to Sangiovese, rivaling the flavor and style of Tuscany’s flagship variety with deeper colors and an approachability that not only pairs with the local meat-based dishes, but is extremely drinkable and rewarding all on its own.

The 2013 is absolutely delicious. With 16 months in barriques followed by several months of bottle aging, the wine is extraordinarily balanced and wonderful to pair with food, yet can still be drunk all on its own. Ruby in color with inviting aromas of dark cherries and spices, the wine has flavors of berries, hazelnut and espresso that envelope the palate, leading to a lingering, delectable finish. With soft, approachable tannins, a single bottle will go fast. So for today’s offer of up to 25% off, we’re offering the “Querciolaia” in 6 and 12-packs so you’ll have plenty for the long haul. We suggest acting quickly in placing your orders as our limited quantity will go fast.