New Release: Boscarelli 2017

~ Montepulciano is visible from the Boscarelli vineyards ~

One of the most notable names in Vino Nobile is Boscarelli.   Ever since the Corradi family moved to Tuscany from Genoa in 1983, Boscarelli has been in their capable hands.  Although small, the 14 hectare estate produces five distinctive levels of Vino Nobile which culminates in the single vineyard “Il Nocio” a perennial Tre-Bicchieri award winner.  The last time I was together with Luca Corradi, we discussed the family’s passion for Nobile and their dedication to terroir.

“At Boscarelli, we never forget the link with tradition and the Etruscan roots of this particular place. The challenge is to give balance to the richness and complexity that this stunning territory expresses. Each year, we wait for the harvest with incredible excitement and anticipation and always hope we are able to infuse our wine with the fragrance and aromatic richness of our grapes.”   The Boscarelli team has an ongoing consultancy with Maurizio Castelli.

~ The rooftops of Montepulciano ~

I last checked in on Boscarelli during my Tasting Report coverage of Vino Nobile as a whole.   At the time, the wines were from the 2016 vintage and as you might expect, they showed incredibly well.   Boscarelli’s estate Vino Nobile has been produced since 1968 and the average annual production is 50,000.  As a result, the wine is relatively easy to source and remains affordable.  The vineyards which produce the fruit for the estate Vino Nobile are some of the youngest on the property.  However, they still average 10-12 years of age.

~ Pumpovers and Punching down the “cap” at Boscarelli ~

The estate Vino Nobile is still traditionally made.  That is, the wine is a blend of 85% Sangiovese while the balance of the blend is comprised of Canaiolo, Mammolo and Colorino.  In my mind, Vino Nobile are more distinctive and well, Noble – when they are crafted with 100% Sangiovese.  It’s a small nit to pick I suppose, but it’s my preference.

The 2017 Boscarelli Vino Nobile is a pretty, deep ruby in the glass.   Immediately I am struck by the mineral component in this wine.  Blood, iron and copper notes are prevalent on the palate which join the flaky shale and cherry notes that emerged on the nose.  It’s moderately tannic and a bit too austere for my tastes right now.  The vines for this wine grow in red dirt that is rich with minerals and that’s really coming through.  I don’t recall that as much in 2016.  Perhaps it’s the vintage character manifesting in the wine?  I can’t say for certain but it’s not blowing the doors off.   85 points.  A fair value around $21.  Find this wine.

~ The 2017 Boscarelli could benefit from some time in bottle. I look forward to trying it again in Tuscany during the October Rustic Tuscany Tour ~

Stay tuned for more recent releases and a few interesting teasers from Italia…..

Salute!