Loghi Rosso IGT Toscana 2016

Given the eye watering price that Tuscan's seem to start at. I think this represents a 'lower end' wine but still ~ £15 (Martinez Wines).




Made near Montalcino, about 20km south of Sienna. 70% Sangiovese and 30% Merlot. 



It is very dry. The tannins feel rustic. There is some forest floor, clay, cedar (the Merlot?). The fruit is restrained, slightly sour-cherry edge which I guess comes from the sangiovese? It went very well with braised brisket.

My experience of Italian reds remains negligible but I'd say it conforms to the rest of the examples within that (very limited) sample: dry, satisfying, slightly tart and expensive! These wines must be a nightmare to mass-market.

Southwold wines

The L'Hermitage de Chasse Spleen was the last of the case I think. It may well be my first serious attempt to by good claret by the case. For the first few years it was stored in atrocious conditions (upright, in wildly fluctuating temperatures). At least one bottle had it's cork protruding which didn't bode well. I recall many of these bottles being somewhat thin but this was a cracker. Very smooth, harmonious. Lacking the power of a high end claret but still enough fruit to do it justice.

The Julienas (Adnams) was incredibly good value at £10. Really juicy, light and refreshing.

The Sesti was the reason why I first came into contact with Adnams. It was part of a mixed case put together by The Bunch and released by The Telegraph. Earthy, deep savoury edge to it. I know nothing of the grape or the region. Still can't decide how I feel about Italian reds. All too often they seem rather ragged/rustic yet the price tags don't reflect this.

I was too far gone to recall anything useful about the Rioja. Pity, I think MH paid a fair whack for it.