Italian Nebbiolo, Chianti, Primitivo and 1 US Cabernet Sauvignon
Wine Varietal Overview
This tasting featured Cabernet Sauvignon, Nebbiolo, Chianti Reserva, and Primitivo, spanning California and Italy in the $20-$30 range. Below is a brief introduction to the wines:
Cabernet Sauvignon (California)
Full-bodied, high tannins, and deep dark fruit flavors (blackberry, cassis).
Common notes: oak, vanilla, spice, and sometimes earthy tones.
Nebbiolo (Italy)
Lighter color but full-bodied with high tannins and acidity.
Common notes: rose petals, cherry, tar, leather, and licorice.
Chianti Reserva (Italy)
Made from Sangiovese, medium-bodied with high acidity and tannins.
Common notes: red cherry, dried herbs, tobacco, and earthiness.
Primitivo (Zinfandel) (Italy)
Bold and fruit-forward with medium tannins and high alcohol.
Common notes: blackberry, plum, pepper, and baking spice.
Wines Tasted & Scores
The tasting included six participants (Scott, Lynn, Jennifer, John, Corey, and Michaela), who evaluated the wines blindly. Here’s how each wine performed:
1. 2018 Robert Story Cellars, Rutherford Reserve (Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, $25.99)
Tasting Notes:
Deep ruby color, smooth oak influence.
Some found it bold and structured, while others wanted more fruit expression.
A classic California Cab with noticeable tannins and a lingering finish.
Scores:
Total: 100.5 points
2. 2020 Langhe Nebbiolo, Guido Bona (Piedmont, Italy, $24.99)
Tasting Notes:
Elegant but firm tannins with floral and red fruit aromas.
Some tasters noted dried rose, tar, and a slight tartness.
The acidity was a standout, making it food-friendly.
Scores:
Total: 97.5 points
3. 2020 Badiolo Chianti Reserva (Tuscany, Italy, $14.99)
Tasting Notes:
Deep garnet color with herbal and cherry notes.
Balanced acidity and tannins, making it versatile.
Some tasters noted vanilla and oak undertones.
Scores:
Total: 102 points
4. 2021 Layer Cake Primitivo (Puglia, Italy, $19.99)
Tasting Notes:
Ripe, fruit-forward profile with dark berries and spice.
Slight peppery finish with a smooth, easy-drinking feel.
Some tasters found it less complex than the others but still enjoyable.
Scores:
Total: 95.5 points
Winning Wine: 2020 Badiolo Chianti Reserva 🎉
The Chianti Reserva won with 102 points, praised for its:
✔ Balanced tannins and acidity
✔ Complex flavors with cherry, herbs, and oak
✔ Approachability and versatility with food
The tasters appreciated its classic Italian character, making it a favorite for overall enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
The California Cabernet Sauvignon was well received but slightly overshadowed by the Chianti's balance.
The Nebbiolo showed great structure but was a bit divisive due to its firm tannins.
The Primitivo was easy-drinking and fruit-forward but not as complex as the others.
Ultimately, the Chianti Reserva stood out as the best wine of the night, proving that a well-balanced, food-friendly wine can outshine even bigger, bolder reds. 🍷
