In Piedmont, the Rivetti's La Spinetta wines have been synonymous with superlative, indigenous, varietal wines, beginning with their '78 single vineyard Moscato release through to today with Barbera, as well as Nebbiolo in both Barbaresco and Barolo. Often while visiting Tuscany, Giorgio Rivetti wondered why many producers opted to rip up old vines of Sangiovese, plant new Cabernet, Merlot and Syrah, and fashion wines for a more global palate.
In 2001, La Spinetta expanded into Tuscany with the goal of creating wonderful expressions of indigenous varietals, much like they do up north. With the 2006 vintage they have done just that.
2006 Casanova della Spinetta Il Gentile di Casanova gets it's name from the Sangiovese clone Prugnolo Gentile, used primarily in Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. This intense ruby red wine, with it's bouquet of wild flowers and ripe cherries, is full bodied with refined tannins that carry some minerality, tobacco and a spice on the finish.
2006 Casanova della Spinetta Il Colorino di Casanova is even a touch more unique. Colorino is historically a blending varietal, added to Sangiovese to provide darker red color, as well as additional structure and tannins. However, the Rivetti's pure example provides a nose of dark wild berry patches, pine needles and pepper, as well as a juicy, plummy core that transforms through mocha, cocoa and fresh herbs. It's a wine that expands over the palate, yet appears weightless at the same time, the mark of something truly special.
These selections received 92 and 93 points in Robert Parker's Wine Advocate respectfully. A few people I blinded expected the wines to be priced in the $40 range, so at $18.99 and $22.99 they shouldn't last long in our inventory. I highly suggest grabbing some up and enjoying them over the next 5+ years.