Sellari Franceschini "Morello" Morellino di Scansano 2007

Our Italian adventure continues with a stay just outside the town of Scansano. This region, known as La Maremma, occupies the southwestern corner of Toscana, and is absolutely beautiful (while pleasantly less in the limelight than the Chianti region to the north). Here you will find some of the best peppery olive oil you've ever had, and a Vintage Knows staple red wine... Morellino di Scansano. This is the first of two offerings from Enoteca Scansanese, a great shop in Scansano with a wall full of local wines.

EXPERIENCE
A nutty cork and bold fruity funk on the nose. Tart on the tongue and very dry. Medium light body with abundant peppery spice in the finish. As it opens the flavors become slightly muted, but still bold.

VERDICT
GOOD AND CHEAP - At €15 (around $20) this wine is a great deal. Light yet surprisingly bold, it really stands out from other Morellino's that we've tried. There were only 2,801 bottles of this vintage made, so it may be hard to find. If you can find it, your efforts will be rewarded!

FACTS
Sellari Franceschini's "Morello" is a bonafide DOCG Morellino di Scansano. The winery is located near Scansano in southwestern Toscana. It is made from mostly sangiovese (88%) and spagna (6-8%), with malvasia nera, nero francese, grinto, merlot, and cabernet "in piccole percentuali per il resto" (in small percentages for the rest). Easily the most grapes in one blend that we have ever tried. The great thing about Morellino di Scansano is the variety of grapes the winemakers use... the only requirement for the wine formula (aside from growing within the certified area) is 85% sangiovese grapes. That leaves 15% freedom, which this winemaker took serious advantage of. Not much other information on the web, and availability in the US looks slim... but we will keep an eye out. Please let us know if you find it!