David Lawrason’s Weekly Wine Pick: an excellent yet affordable Tuscan red
Antinori 2010 Santa Cristina
$12.10 | Tuscany | 87 points
Recently, many basic chiantis have “morphed” into IGT Tuscan reds, in order to be freed from the shackles of appellation regulations. This allows a wider sourcing to meet volumes, and the use of other grape varieties. Traditionalists were concerned that something would be lost. Not so. Since 2006, Antinori’s popular Santa Cristina has been made at its own winery near Cortona in eastern Tuscany, and its quality has improved.
The taste: This wraps typical Tuscan flavours of currants, peppery spice and a meaty note into a fleshy, more international style. There is a sense of richness and generosity not expected at the price. And the length is very good.
How to drink it: This should hold its fruit nicely over the next three years, although it’s also balanced and juicy enough to drink now. It will go well with a wide range of casual meals, Italian-inspired or not. Chill lightly.
