What a summer we had! I can’t remember the last time we went that long without hardly a trace of rain. For those who seemed concerned, I always mention that we live in the Pacific NW, which means we will get plenty of rain eventually. As I’m writing, the wind is blowing and the rain is pouring down. When the weather changes and fall settles in, my pick of the month reflects the changing mood for the wine buyer. I typically seek out hearty, earthy reds that match up well with fall dishes like pasta dishes, stews and roasts. I often look to Spain for great values, but since I recently went to Italy (Sicily to be exact), I thought I would look for a wine from this region. With help from my assistant Scott, I found the wine that fits the bill for October.
2020 Carpineto Dogajolo Tuscan Red (Tuscany, Itlay)… $14.
This baby is all about old world on the nose. Aromas of earth, worn leather, cherries and currants. The cherry and currant notes ride on the palate, backed by leather and earth notes with a kiss of tobacco coming through. Approachable, structured tannins and nicely integrated acidity round this wine out. You certainly could drink this all by itself, but as is true of most old-world wines, it is great with food. I was thinking of lamb, pizza, burgers, stews, or a pasta dish with red sauce. Keep in mind that this wine opens up nicely when decanted for a couple of hours. A lot of wine for the money. 80% Sangiovese, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon (B+)
Cheers!
Stan The Wine Man
