Freddy R. Troya

9.0

San Polo “Rubio” Toscana IGT 2023
Toscana IGT – Tuscany – Italy 🇮🇹

Overview
A modern Tuscan red blend crafted with certified organic grapes, primarily driven by Sangiovese and complemented by small percentages of international varieties, typically including Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon depending on the vintage. Produced by San Polo in the heart of Montalcino, this wine captures the approachable yet structured identity of contemporary Toscana IGT wines.

Aromas & Flavors
Ripe red cherry, wild berries, plum, and subtle violet notes layered with touches of spice, dried herbs, and soft earthy undertones. The international varieties add roundness and darker fruit nuances while Sangiovese maintains freshness and energy.

Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied with lively acidity, polished tannins, and a balanced texture. Fresh and approachable while still maintaining enough structure to feel distinctly Tuscan.

Food Pairings
Excellent with pizza, pasta with red sauce, grilled sausages, charcuterie boards, roasted chicken, or aged pecorino cheese.

Verdict
A very enjoyable and versatile Toscana IGT that showcases Sangiovese as the backbone while allowing international grapes to soften and broaden the profile. Authentic enough to reflect Tuscany, yet approachable enough for casual everyday drinking.

🍷 Did You Know?
The Toscana IGT classification was created partly to give producers more flexibility beyond strict DOC/DOCG regulations, allowing the use of international grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot alongside traditional Tuscan varieties, ultimately helping launch the famous “Super Tuscan” movement back in late 60’s and early 70’s. — 3 days ago

Vanessa

9.1

Happy International Merlot Day!! — 4 years ago

with Deked1

Jason Troendle

9.4

Sweet and not too strong — 5 years ago

with Mandy

Freddy R. Troya

9.1

Macchia – “Delicious” Barbera – 2023
Heaven’s Vines, Lodi – USA 🇺🇸

Overview
100% Barbera from Lodi. an Italian indigenous grape known for its naturally high acidity, juicy fruit, and casual drinkability. Macchia Winery, celebrated for producing over 20 distinct styles of Zinfandel, also showcases its versatility with Italian varieties. Consistently recognized with domestic and international awards, the winery brings Barbera into the spotlight with this vibrant estate bottling.

Aromas & Flavors
Ripe red cherries, plum, blackberry compote, and a touch of vanilla and sweet spice. Fresh, fruity, and forward with that classic Barbera brightness.

Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied with lively acidity and a smooth, easygoing finish. Juicy fruit drives the palate, making it approachable and highly sip-worthy.

Food Pairings
Perfect with pizza, pasta with tomato-based sauces, grilled sausages, roasted vegetables, or charcuterie. A true “any day, any time” red.

Verdict
A fun, approachable, and fruit-driven Barbera with Macchia’s signature Lodi generosity. Casual enough for weeknight sipping yet polished enough to show the quality behind this estate-grown wine.

Did You Know?
Barbera is one of Italy’s most widely planted red grapes, cherished for its fresh acidity and versatility. In California, Lodi’s warm days and cool delta breezes help the variety express generous fruit while maintaining balance. — 6 months ago

Christian Carroll

10

Sooo good so tasty!! I drink one bottle every day it's amazing!! — 3 years ago

ESF

9.2

See previous note, some time has really improved this wine - represents outstanding QPR. Again, very international style Rioja - super generous & delicious — 4 years ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.2

This is an amazing IGT out of international variety Sauv. Blanc, it has a up lifting acidity, mild citrusy, mandarin peel. Compelling sapidity, nice minerality, dry and very refreshing. A subtle touch of wood, and low in AVB% 12. Deliciously mouthfeel. Cheers! — a year ago

R Bl

9.0

Nice cab blend - still a little tannin. Label says 30% France, 22% Chile, 30% Australia, 18% USA. No vintage on label but artwork says ‘92 which seems right. — 3 years ago

Nick

9.2

Absolutely caught me off guard. This was a simple gift from family. Now my wife and I are scrambling to buy another bottle. A phenomenal blend. Full bodied and spice. I would love for someone who actually knows what they’re talking about to try and this lol — 4 years ago

Bob McDonald

9.5

See previous notes. Put simply this is a stunning Chardonnay as its Show Record will attest, with at least 5 Trophies including Best Wine in Show at the Royal Hobart International Wine Show. A good combination of citrus and stone fruit with leesy complexity and incredible length of flavour. Demonstrates once again how great Margaret River is for Chardonnay. I’m glad I have 3 bottles left. A huge bargain at $30 per bottle. Tasted again on 6th November 2021, 28 weeks later. Nothing to add. Just a killer Chardonnay which has won 5 Trophies and cost $30. QPR does not get much better than this. 96 points. Tasted final bottle on 16th June 2022 with consistent notes. Oak has fully integrated into the fruit. Should seek out more at this price. Hopefully they have kept up the standard with later vintages. — 5 years ago