Tuscany – Deep Red Cellar

I brought back 3 bottles of Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino from Italy in 2010 and put them (along with about 400 other bottles) in wine storage for safe keeping. It was not until I moved back to California in 2016 that I flew down to San Diego, pulled my wine out of storage, rented the biggest SUV I could find and drove the entire inventory to my home wine cellar in Central California (full disclosure – my husband did the driving). Just as good as presents under the Christmas tree in case you were wondering!

The vintages of the Casanova di Neri were 2003, 2004 and 2005. Not ancient but aged enough that I started wondering how they were doing. I bought a Coravin just for the occasion.

Tasting Notes –

2003 – Intensely colored garnet, with flavors of red currant, black tea leaves, and eucalyptus. A masculine wine with woodsy flavors alongside cigar and leather. Tannins were still very pronounced and the finish long.

2004 – Luscious with black cherry, plum and red fruit seeds. Interesting flavors of baking spices sprinkled on tomatoes, and earthen clay pot planted with herbs. The tannins were in-your-face fury in the most pleasant way.

2005 – Prominant red fruit alongside smoked paprika, red cedar, and caramelized mocha. Beefcake aspects included leather, cured meat, and campfire wood. The clay pot was not planted with herbs but flowers that had dried. Beautiful round tannins and an engaging, lingering finish.

A couple take-aways….

If you’ve ever thought about purchasing a Coravin, let me just say, I can not believe it took me so long to get one. The perfect tool for the task.

I shouldn’t have been but was surprised how well these wines held up. We deduced the 2003 was appropriately aged so we enjoyed the rest of the bottle. The 2004 and 2005 were fantastic but not at prime “show off” status so we put them back for now. It will be with great anticipation and excitement to revisit them and see how they’ve changed. A nice reminder that wine is exciting, ever-changing and mystical.

*Thank you to Wine Folly The Essential Guide To Wine by Madeline Puckette and Justin Hammack always a great reference source.

It’s been about 2 years since I’ve lived in Italy – hard to believe except for my massive withdrawal from mozzarella di bufala, too many delectable wines to count and lasting friendships. Ah the friendships…..you meet an Italian once and you’ve gained a friendship that will last a lifetime. They will never forget you and if you’re lucky, you will never forget them.

My friendship with Stefano & Paola Zocchi, in particular, has led me to write this post. I met Stefano & Paola when my family and I stayed at their beautiful Relais “La Palazzetta del Vescovo” (www.lapalazzettadelvescovo.com) in Umbria. I’m not sure how I stumbled on “La Palazzetta” but I was so impressed, I stayed two more times before I left Italy (see march 18,2010 post). I’ve had the privilege of keeping in contact with the Zocchis who have just opened their second accommodation in Lucca called “Palazzo Orsucci” (www.palazzoorsucci.com).

Deep Red Cellar is not a travel website but it is my website which means I get to write what I’d like. 🙂 Besides, it would just be mean to know about “Palazzo Orsucci” and not tell you!

Stefano and Paola opened “Palazzo Orsucci” just a month or two ago after a complete renovation to the 16 century apartment. Close attention was paid to ensure the integrity and allure of the historical architecture remained and modern conveniences were added. The Zocchi’s dedication to quality and meticulous eye for decor are evident throughout the apartment as it seems as if you are walking into their own carefully decorated home or perhaps a beautiful 5 star accommodation situated in the historic city center of Lucca.

So if you find yourself planning a trip to Tuscany, I highly recommend a stay at “Palazzo Orsucci.” It’s the perfect romantic get-a-way.

You will find all the pertinent information including contact, reservation and pricing information at www.palazzoorsucci.com. I have every intention of experiencing “Palazzo Orsucci” myself but if you beat me to it, I’d love to hear what you thought!

Category: Tuscany

A Vertical Tasting of Casanova di Neri

Tasting Notes –

The Best Place To Stay In Tuscany!