Whoever said Under the Tuscan Sun either knew what they were talking about or never lived through a Hurricane. Granted, this was minor in terms of hurricanes, especially when compared to the storms that occur in other areas – nevertheless, power lines are above ground here, large trees are mature, weakened and replete with leaves, and power lines are ubiquitous. The area just isn’t prepared for this sort of storm, and the results were obvious.
As I type, power restoration is only 3 days old – there is no cable, no phones, no internet and only spotty cell service. And thus, my absence here from Tuscan Vines. But that ends today. Within sight of a roaring hearth, we uncorked a wine with structure worthy of the storm.
The 2005 Colpetrone Sagrantino di Montefalco is dark, brooding and black as night in the glass. Aromas are rich with black olive, roasted espresso, smoke, licorice and dark fruits. A mineral streak adds wonderful complexity. This is really attractive in the glass. Flavors follow the nose and blend seamlessly – the tannins are forceful suggesting that this can age for years, if not a decade and emerge as a softer version of itself. I love Sagrantino and Colpetrone is becoming one of my favorite producers, especially when you consider that they are comparatively value priced compared to some other producers. 92 points, about $30.
 |
| 2005 Colpetrone Sagrantino di Montefalco |
With the Sagrantino, I made a simple pan roasted chicken with a buerre blanc sauce. Very simply, I sautéed some onions in extra virgin olive oil and butter until they were softened. I removed them, deglaze the pan, and then browned the chicken breasts thoroughly. I returned the onions, added some additional white wine and butter and combined them into a sauce. The darker browning of the chicken stood up well to the substantial wine.
 |
| Pan Roasted Chicken in Buerre Blance |
Lastly, a special thank you again to my Facebook friends, Twitter followers, and blog subscribers that inquired about our welfare and sent their best regards. It was much appreciated.
TuscanVines is back – and tomorrow, the interview with Castello Banfi winemaker, Rudi Buratti will be posted.
Allora…..
Wow John, you have a good wine, a good attitude, and so another great interview.
I've missed you.
I'm glad you're back, and safe!
Dennis
We're back baby! 🙂