Italian Wine Editor Stephanie Johnson writes a rad review of Querciabella in the Spring 2023 issue of Wine & Spirits Magazine
Thanks to her background in the wine retail and restaurant sectors – including five years at City Winery, one of the most exciting wine venues in NYC – Stephanie Johnson is an esteemed authority within the sommelier community.
The Italian Wine Editor at Wine & Spirits magazine, Stephanie spends a significant amount of time each year visiting Italy, tasting with producers and researching articles about their practices. Querciabella Gran Selezione really struck a chord with her, her curiosity enticed by the submerged cap maceration, a technique usually typical of Piedmontese wines.
Querciabella Gran Selezione 2018 · 95/100
“This is the second release of Querciabella’s Gran Selezione, the sangiovese harvested from high-elevation plots near Ruffoli in the Greve UGA. Winemaker Manfred Ing macerates his wine with a submerged cap, promoting gentle extraction of tannins while maintaining intense aromas of soft rose petal and fresh red cherry. This is a refreshingly high-toned Gran Selezione, the buoyant red fruit infused with notes of fennel bulb and tarragon that persist through the poised and precise finish.” —SJ
Querciabella Riserva 2019 · 93/100
“This buoyant wine opens with fresh floral scents that lead into crunchy berry and cherry flavors. Lively acidity drives the flavors as the wine picks up notes of graphite and subtle hints of spice. The flavors remain tautly woven and energetic over several days, indicating good aging potential.” —SJ
Batàr 2020 · 92/100
“This barrel-aged blend is equal parts chardonnay and pinot bianco. It’s bold and heady with flavors of poached pear, buttered pineapple and vanilla bean couched in a rich, saline-inflected texture. Cool mineral tones emerge after an hour in the glass, along with scents of orange blossom and chamomile that lift the finish.” —SJ
