Piccini, Toscana Rosso IGT (Italy) 2014

Here is a wine to woo your domestic drinking friends over to the Italian side.  It’s a very interesting blend of Sangiovese, Colorino, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, and it’s made in a traditional Tuscan method that involves a second fermentation caused by the addition of some dried grapes after the initial ferment.  The result is a very fruit forward, intensely concentrated wine that is similar in style to a California Zinfandel, but with more acid structure.  Bright cherry and raspberry fruit with fall spice and orange zest make for a fine solo drink, or a pairing for grilled meats — you pick the animal.