Brancaia Tre XMAS Toscana IGT

Medium ruby in color, minimal opacity, medium+alcohol based on viscosity. The nose has medium+concentration, bringing aromas of plush dark fruit, plum, blackberry, currant with a touch of cherry, oregano, sage, thyme and a touch of baking spice and cocoa. The palate is rich, round, concentrated yet with elegance, dark fruit dominant in the front palate leading to an herbal and spice driven finish accompanied by fine tannins and fresh acidity. Balanced, big and bold, yet identifiably Tuscan. Medium+body, medium+acid, medium …

Wine Spectator Grand Tour (Wynn Resort, Las Vegas, NV) : Last tasted at the same walk-around event a year ago, this wine has changed very little. Comprised of 80% Merlot, 10% Sangiovese and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, each varietal (and vineyard source) was aged separately for 18 months in French oak barriques (two-thirds new). The final blend was then aged for three months in uncoated concrete tanks prior to bottling. Still deep ruby in color, it continues to offer a core …

Wine Spectator Grand Tour (Resorts World, Las Vegas, NV) : Brancaia's 2020 Il Blu is a deep ruby blend of 80% Merlot, 10% Sangiovese and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, with each varietal (and vineyard source) aged separately for 18 months in French oak barriques (two-thirds new). The final blend was then aged for three months in uncoated concrete tanks before bottling. Richly aromatic and flavorful, it serves up an array of red and black fruits that are accented with exotic spices, …

Opened in the bottle for several hours. As expected lots of exposed oak but still plenty of ripe black fruit and dark chocolate. Needs 5 plus years to integrate but good now.