Casale Falchini, Toscana IGT (Italy) 2011

A steal.  Let me repeat — this wine is a steal.  Falchini is perhaps best known for their lovely Vernaccia di San Gimignano, Vigna a Solatio, which at $13, is another steal, but that’s another story. Their Paretaio, a Super Tuscan in everything but the price, could easily become their calling card.  A blend of Sangiovese (90%) and Merlot and aged in French barriques for 18 months, it certainly follows the recipe for a Super Tuscan.  But unlike so many of the so-called Super Tuscans, this wine is not over ripe, sweet or redolent with oak.  It’s a balanced amalgam of earth, minerals and dark cherries wrapped in suave tannins and brightened by uplifting Tuscan acidity.  Savory and long, at the risk of repeating myself, it’s a steal!