Well, another Friday is upon us and some of us are on the home stretch of being done Isolation. However, even after two weeks, we wonder if everything is ok to resume. That said, this might be our “new normal” for awhile. To be honest, I can’t say that I like it.

So with these last couple of days to complete two weeks, I want to open some old favourites and some really, really, ridiculously good (looking) wine.

Super Tuscan wine took the world by storm in the early 70’s with wines that were produced outside of DOC and DOCG zones, made with other grapes than what was allowed.  These wines are typically made with a variety of Bordeaux grapes, as well as Syrah and Sangiovese and now have the IGT designation (they previously could only use the lowly Vino di Tavola). Today, they are very much considered cult wines, and have the price tag to go with it. One such wine is Sassacaia, which is typically constructed of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Every year, this wine scores top marks from the critics and it’s a wine that many want in their cellars. The 2016 Sassicaia scored 100 points and just the other day, I sold the last three bottles I had on the shelf at the store! I get a bit giddy when wines like that go out the door!

However, this evening’s wine will be from the I Colazzi winery…a family business since 1933, the Marchi family doesn’t just make wine, but olive oil and honey! One of their wines is the absolutely amazing Ferro – made from 100% Petit Verdot. But that’s not what I’m having…I absolutely love the Libertà, essentially, a baby Super Tuscan. Made from  55% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc and 15% Syrah, all of these grapes are making an appearance for a perfectly blended wine! Soft on the palate with those plummy notes from our steady Merlot, forest floor, earthiness and hints of capsicum courtesy of the Cab Franc, and just a hint of meatiness and pepper, thanks to Syrah. This wine is an absolute steal at only $21 CAD on the shelf. Great balance and structure here without it being too tannic. It’s pure and easy to drink. I know I can’t afford Super Tuscans every day, but I can sure afford this! Bring on the babies! Salute!