Ruffino, Toscana Rosso IGT (Tuscany, Italy) 2017

 This Tuscan blend of 37% Sangiovese, 32% Merlot and 31% Cabernet Sauvignon clearly transcends expectations for a 2017 from the region and achieves indisputable excellence.  “Meaty” in both texture and flavor, there’s nothing chunky or obvious about this, as might well have been the result from a hot year.  On the contrary, the wine displays impressive purity of fruit (showing mostly back fruit tones but red ones also) and a tasteful dash of spicy oak.  A Platinum Award winner at the 2021 Critics Challenge International Wine and Spirits Competition.