Close
Search
Filters

Il Blu 2011 75cl

IGT | Tuscany | Italy
Sold out
Critics scores
94 Robert Parker
A landmark wine on all levels, the 2011 Il Blu really seems to love the heat of the vintage. Barbara Widmer says that heat spikes followed by intermittent cool spells helped to establish complexity in her wines. Il Blu is 50% Sangiovese, 45% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. The nose is painted in broad strokes of espresso bean, black cherry, baking spice and moist tobacco. The mouthfeel is infinitely soft and supple.  Winemaker Barbara Widmer characterizes the 2012 vintage as hot and dry, especially at the peak of summer. This led to reduced yields (of about 15% overall) and thicker skins on the grapes. High polyphenolic levels and supple extracts are impossible to miss in the two wines made that year: Ilatraia and Tre. 
92 Wine Spectator
Offering a mix of black cherry, dark plum and spice flavors, this red combines power and fluidity. The tannins are assertive for now, but this remains fresh and intense on the long finish. Tobacco and mineral notes show on the finish. Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Best from 2017 through 2027. 4,166 cases imported. –BS
Producer
Brancaia
Swiss couple, Brigitte and Bruno Widmer own 75-hectares of vineyards that make up La Brancaia estate. Split among three properties, there is Brancaia from Castellina in Chianti, Poppi from Radda in Chianti, and once again, Brancaia in Maremma from Grosseto. Each land-holding is similarly planted with Sangiovese and French varieties, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, Viognier and Marsanne. The three unique plots are united by one thing, the same devoted team of individuals that are always working to achieve greater grape quality. Today, La Brancaia is managed by the Widmer’s daughter, Barbara and her husband, Martin Kronenberg. The estate continues to flourish making four new wooded reds, and one unoaked fresh white.