Tonight, I got to try the red from Rossella Bencini Tesi. Just like I was told, it wasn't quite as unique a wine as the Sassocarlo, but it was very nice.
Fattoria di Bacchereto Carmignano "Terre a Mano" 2006 - 75% Sangiovese, 10% Canaiolo Nero, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon; 2 years in Alliers oak of 350 l.; 14,5% abv; label
I knew that the tradition of adding Cab Sauv to Sangiovese predated "Super Tuscans", but I had no idea the tradition went all the way back to the 18th Century in the case of Carmignano. I have tasted only a handful of such blends where I felt that the Cab didn't overwhelm the Sangiovese and this is one of them.
Dark toned, earthy and herbaceous aroma despite bright cherry scents - it is a little bit different profile to the pure Sangioveses I have had, though I don't perceive obvious Cab aromas. Very racy and lively, bright and tangy despite its richness. Palate cleansing tannins and fair acidity keep the fruit in check. The high alcohol is not noticeable. Very nice.
