La Massa 2013 75cl

A solid and chewy young red with dried blackberries, licorice and hints of toasted oak and walnuts. A full-bodied, energetic red from the Chianti Classico region of Panzano. Needs two to three years of bottle age. A blend of sangivoese, merlot, cabernet sauvignon and alicante.

The 2013 La Massa is a delicious blend of 60% Sangiovese and 30% Merlot, with the rest being Cabernet Sauvignon and Alicante Bouschet. It opens to a bright ruby color with dark garnet intensity. This is a more feminine wine compared to Giorgio Primo, but the wine's inner complexity and finesse are really quite remarkable. Bold fruit layers show intensity and purity, and the wine is impeccably clean and forthcoming. That same sense of purity is transported to the palate where fresh acidity works in nice contrast to the natural heft and structure of this wine. Best of all, La Massa is a great value. Giampaolo Motta's Fattoria La Massa is one of my favorite estates in Panzano-in-Chainti. This tasting served as a happy reminder of why I love these wines so much. The 2012 Giorgio Prima is impeccable. It is a small miracle in what most agree was not an easy vintage. Mr. Motta evidently has that magic touch. I loved this set of new releases and was particularly thrilled to try a new wine: The IGT Toscana Carla 6 that left me extremely satisfied. In truth, I was floored by it. Importer(s): T. Edward Wines, 66 West Broadway #406, New York, NY 10007, (212) 233-1504 , www.tedwardwines.com