IGT Rebels with a cause
Having won the
battle to loosen
up Italy’s longstanding
DOC rules,
IGT producers
are defying tradition
to create some
of the country’s
most modern
and diverse wines.
For twenty-eight years now, there’s been a quiet revolution of sorts underway in Italy.
Flirting with modern New World techniques, forward-thinking producers have been refusing to conform
to the country’s strict, traditional DOC rules. By rallying for and winning a newer, modern set of rules,
as embodied in the IGT (Indicazione geografica tipica) designation, they continue to make their dream
wines. From unpretentious great values to the very prestigious, IGT wines have earned a reputation
for their modern style and international acclaim.
Two hundred IGTs have been recognized across Italy, all making a wide range of exciting wines.
Tuscany is the most famous source, but excellent versions are also being created in a variety of regions
including Veneto and Puglia. In this feature, VINTAGES has assembled an interesting cross-section
of IGT wines hailing from three important parts of Italy. And remember, like DOCG and DOC, IGT wines
not only refer to quality but to authenticity, style and personal commitment.
|
|
|
|
 |
BANFI CENTINE 2006
IGT Toscana
TASTING NOTE: Very rich and ripe aromas of blackberry and earth follow through to a full-bodied palate, with soft tannins and a long finish. Shows lovely flavors. One of the best values from Tuscany this year. Best after 2007. Score - 88. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 31, 2007)
947440 (D) 750 mL $17.95  |
|
New at Vintages
GIORDANO VESPERO ROSSO 2005
IGT Toscana, Promessi Sposi
This 100% Sangiovese wine won a gold medal at the 2008 Vinitaly Wine Competition.
TASTING NOTE: Medium garnet in colour, the nose reveals pretty aromas of raspberry, dried fruit, red cherry and mineral. Medium to full-bodied, the palate expresses flavours of fresh ripe red cherry and raspbery on the attack, followed by fruit compote and cocoa. The finish is beautifully balanced by medium acidity and moderate tanins. Drink now with pasta alla bolognese, meat lasagna or rare steak or cellar up to 3 years. (VINTAGES panel, July 2008)
072421 (D) 750 mL $19.95 |
|
MALENCHINI BRUZZICO 2003
IGT Toscana
TASTING NOTE: Wonderful aromas of currant, licorice and blackberry. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long finish. Needs time to come together. Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese. Best after 2007. Score - 91. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 31, 2006)
658427 (XD) 750 mL $37.95 |
|
|
 |
arrive in style
ORNELLAIA LE VOLTE 2006
IGT Toscana
TASTING NOTE: The 2006 Le Volte is especially generous in this vintage. This plump, juicy wine bursts from the glass with an array of super-ripe dark plums, cherries, smoke and licorice. It is an engaging, rewarding wine to enjoy over the next few years. Le Volte is made from Sangiovese which is purchased from outside producers plus Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grown on the property. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2011. Score - 90. (Antonio Galloni, www.erobertparker.com, June 2008)
964221 (XD) 750 mL $25.95 |
|
APOLLONIO VALLE CUPA 2001
IGT Salento Rosso
TASTING NOTE: Rich and opulent but with a rugged personality, you can taste the heat of southern Italy. A 50/50 blend of Negroamaro and Primitivo, it is crammed with dark, brambly fruits and earthy character. The palate is truly mouthfilling with a slightly gamey edge, and the toasty oak brings a touch of vanilla. Up to 5 years. Score -  (out of 5). Decanter, Nov. 2007)
084046 (XD) 750 mL $20.95 |
|
ALLEGRINI PALAZZO DELLA TORRE 2004
IGT Veronese
TASTING NOTE: Allegrini's Palazzo della Torre (70% Corvina, 25% Rondinella, 5% Sangiovese) has long been one of my favorite ripasso-style wines and the 2004 is another winner. It reveals a plump, juicy personality loaded with perfumed, jammy fruit, roasted coffee beans and new leather. Although it is absolutely irresistible today, a few additional months of bottle age should help soften the wine further. It is a gorgeous effort at this level and a terrific value. Score - 90. (Antonio Galloni, www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2007)
672931 (D) 750 mL $24.95  |
|
|
|
