Friday, June 4, 2010

Fattoria dei Barbi 2006

This is a family that needs no introduction.  The Colombini family has owned land in Tuscany since 1352, and purchased Fattoria di Barbi in 1790.  Today, the winery is operated by Stefano Colombini who is the 20th generation of wine producers in the family.  The Fattoria dei Barbi label is probably best known for their Brunello di Montalcino.  However, if you can find the 2006 Morrelino di Scansano, be sure to give this wine a try.  It is a blend of Sangiovese and Merlot with wonderful aromas of cherries, blackberries and blueberries, along with the Tuscan earthiness of mushrooms growing in the barnyard.  You might pick up a small amount of vanilla from the oak.  On the palate, this medium-bodied wine has some bing cherry flavors combined with blackberries and plums, along with a hint of spices and black tea.  The tannins were realtively smooth but the acidity was a slight bit high for my taste.  Be sure to decant this wine for at least 30 miutes. We served this with a flank steak and a mint chimichuri sauce, and it was the perfect match.  Would also be a great match for a pasta dish.  The Morrelino di Scansano retails for $15.  Give this a try.

4 comments:

  1. I remember having a Fattoia dei Barbi about two years ago. Local wine shop got a Chianti in that was called Bareback(sic)or something like that. Was not put on my list of 'buy agains.' Will look for the Morrelino di Scansano on future wine buying excursions. Always have hard time pairing with some of Shirley's minty sauces. This may solve that.

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  2. Joe, by the second bottle, it really takes care of the sauces. Cheers!

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