Comparing wines from different denominations and making a list in order of preference is remarkable difficult and unnecessary… unless you are selling magazines or have a paying subscriber membership…I have neither!
In true wine critic tradition I have decided to continue making a list of the wines I most enjoyed during this past year.
My list is not based on price, denomination or points given … it is based on WOW factor!
1) Tenuta di Arceno Arcanum IGT 2018
N.B. 13 wines are listed as it is my favourite number!
Tenuta di Arceno
Arcanum IGT 2018
Cabernet Franc
Deep ruby red in colour. Lifted aromatics of black cherry, blueberry, rose petal, blackcurrant, mint and black tea. Warm entry. Rich and powerful but refined. Secondary notes of liquorice and a puff of gunpowder smoke. Mid palate focused, robust and vibrant. Hovers on the close. Outstanding, a great Cabernet Franc.
Points 98 TW
Arcanum is without doubt one of the greatest Cabernet Franc wines, not only in Italy, but the World. Coming from Castelnuovo Berardenga, the southernmost part of Chianti Classico, Tuscany. The grapes come from two parcels L’ Apparita and Belvedere known for sandy soils and clay deposits.
My thanks to all the winemakers for their expertise and generosity, resulting in yet another outstanding reviewing year.
I would also like to thank my readers: your continued support is invaluable and greatly appreciated.