Walter Speller praises Querciabella in his latest tasting article on Jancis Robinson Purple Pages.
As part of this year’s review of Italian new releases on JancisRobinson.com, Walter Speller praises Querciabella Supertuscans for their pivotal role in making the IGT Toscana wines less ‘international’ and more local. In particular, Camartina 2016 is rewarded with 18/20, the highest score in this round-up.
Camartina 2016 · 18/20
“Gorgeous, taut, tightly knit, tangy fruit and finely ground tannins on the palate. Very long and youthful and superbly structured. Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese blend, of which the sum is greater than the parts. The wine expresses originality rather than grape varieties.” —WS
Palafreno 2016 · 17.5/20
“Redcurrant and sour cherry rather than anything that you would normally associate with Merlot. This wine has eclipsed the grape variety. Gorgeous chewy tannins. Cool-climate character.” —WS
Batàr 2017 · 17+/20
“Deep, shiny straw yellow. Enticing, concentrated nose of toasted hazelnuts, lemon rind, boskoop apple and peach. Gorgeous peach and lemon palate that is finely textured. Very pretty long nerve of acidity wrapped up in layers of lemon curd with touches of cream.” —WS
Batàr 2016 · 17.5/20
“A shade deeper than the 2017. A little less exuberant and more minerally, with distinct saline notes on the nose. (…) Vertical and tight and closed, yet very long and with a great capacity to age.” —WS
Turpino 2017 · 17+/20
“Savoury rather than sweet or ripe on the nose, notwithstanding this is from the hot and torrid 2017 vintage. Hint of earth and dried moss. Lush red and dark fruit with a muscular structure that is completely integrated with the fruit. Hedonistic, long, and with loads of (international) appeal. Great fun to drink.” —WS
Arguably, few journalists have the same amount of knowledge and experience as Walter Speller when it comes to Italian wines. As every year, we especially look forward to his report about Chianti Classico, one of the most comprehensive and insightful.
