2019 Tolaini "Valdisanti" Tuscany, ItalyABOUT THIS WINE A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon 50%, Cabernet Franc 50% Vines are grown on sandy soil with a slight presence of stones (tufa soil). Grapes are first selected during harvest in the vineyard and then by an optical sorter when they arrive at the winery; they are destemmed and the whole berries are immediately placed in French oak fermenters. Fermentation is temperature controlled and the must is kept in contact with the wine for 25 days.

Estèphe appellation

After working for producers such as Ridge and earning a viticulture degree from Fresno State

the wet winters and dry summers caused by the ocean and desert climates

and 8% Sauvignon Blanc from Potter Valley

To broaden the range of wines

goat cheese and prosciutto crostini

These are then blended to achieve a layered

the fermentation was encouraged to keep warm by soaking in the sun throughout the duration of the fermentation before going dry

or after a meal

but Chidaine was convinced that it was one of the very best sites in Montlouis

and they certainly achieved this

In his book Native Wine Grapes of Italy