King Valley 14% Screwcap $25
There’s still a fair few doubters when it comes to Australian Sangiovese. I’m not one of them. More producers are making examples with depth, savouriness, perfume and attractive, grippy tannin. Overall quality is on the rise too. Pizzini’s rendition comes from the region I consider to be the most suitable and proven match for the variety – the King Valley. The 2009 is a blend of the famous Brunello clone, which winemaker Joel Pizzini describes as providing “richness and roundness to the back palate” and the Matura 7 Clone which contributes “colour and structure through the centre palate”.
It’s another strong release, a little deeper and more distinguished than the 2008. The traits that I’ve come to expect though, are still very much apparent; sour cherry, sweeter red fruit high notes, earth and almonds. The acidity curls around the flavours in a becoming fashion and the tannins are delightfully toothsome. It’s at once both meaty and juicy. Some spice at the back end just adds to the allure.
Quite able to be enjoyed now but will only improve over the next five years minimum.
Winery website- http://www.pizzini.com.au/
Damn
I really dug the 08 so I'll have to get some of this.
I LOVE 'delightfully toothsome' JP. I can't say I've used 'toothsome' before, so I quickly Googled it, and you're right.
A word of the day if ever I've heard one.
It's such a bloody consistent wine but I do think this is one of the best releases I've tasted Chris.
I stole 'toothsome' from Nigella Lawson. I really can be lowbrow