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1999
Giovanni's Tuscan Reserve
Varietal/Style: Red blend
Origin: Napa Valley
Vintage: 1999
Winemaker: Nils Venge
Rating: 14.5/20
Retail Price: $55 |
Tasting
Notes: We love small production
wines and special custom cuvées. With 1,500 cases of
the Giovanni, you get a somewhat available but special wine.
Its price is not the best deal on the market, but if you are
seeking a Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese blend from Napa,
it’s not a bad choice. The
wine has good balance and will age for years to come. On approach,
a mix of rich red fruit flavors tickle your nose. The robust
and dark juice is pleasant in the mouth and delivers additional
complexity and flavors: more fruits and spice. It is a tasty
match to lightly barbecued meats, great for your summer parties.
(Date
tasted: 07/01/05)
| Profile:
Flamboyant owner David Del Dotto calls his craft “liquid
art,” and this philosophy certainly shines through
in both his wines and winery. With the help of consulting
winemaker Nils Venge, the Del Dotto family only produces
wines using relatively primitive techniques and organically
grown, barrel-fermented grapes. Although several of
their vineyards are located in nearby St. Helena and
Howell Mountain, the main winery and cellar caves are
in the heart of Napa Valley off of Highway 29. Visitors
can explore their wine gallery and caves, or make an
appointment to try their many wines in the tasting room—they
are known for a killer Cabernet Franc. A special cave
tour and barrel tasting are also available. |
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