Cusumano – Merlot Terre Siciliane IGT 2023
Sicily – Italy 🇮🇹
Overview
Cusumano is one of Sicily’s most progressive family-owned wineries, blending modern winemaking with the island’s ancient terroirs. This 100% Merlot comes from vineyards planted in the rolling hills of the Terre Siciliane IGT, showcasing how international varieties thrive under Sicily’s Mediterranean sun and volcanic-influenced soils.
Aromas & Flavors
Plum, blackberry, and red cherry dominate the nose, with soft accents of violets, Mediterranean herbs, and a touch of cocoa. On the palate, it’s juicy and fruit-driven, supported by hints of spice and earth that keep it grounded.
Mouthfeel
Smooth and medium-bodied, with round tannins and fresh acidity. A vibrant, approachable wine that finishes gently with a fruity, slightly savory edge.
Winemaking Notes
Vinified in stainless steel to preserve freshness and fruit purity, with short aging in neutral vessels. Cusumano’s style emphasizes clean, modern lines rather than heavy oak influence.
Food Pairing
Perfect with pasta alla norma, margherita pizza, grilled sausages, or aged caciocavallo cheese. Its balance of fruit and freshness makes it versatile for everyday Mediterranean dining.
Verdict
An easy-drinking, modern Sicilian Merlot that’s both accessible and expressive of place. Proof that international grapes can shine beautifully on the island, especially when crafted with balance and restraint. A la salute! — 2 months ago
I’ve been so looking forward to experiencing one of my bottles of the 2018 Margherita Otto and decided tonight was the night since it was -17°F here in Omaha. While a relative new-comer as far as Barolo producers are concerned, Alan’s approach leans heavily towards the traditional. Until now, his Barolo remains a blend of Nebbiolo from different communes in an effort to make a more complete expression of the zone. The first few vintages incorporated fruit from Monteforte, Serralunga and Castiglione Falletto. This vintage was the first to incorporate some fruit from the Vignane MGA in Barolo. 
Popped and poured; enjoyed over the course of three days. There was some evolution but it was consistent, with no noticeable dip in enjoyment. The 2018 pours a deep ruby with a translucent core and a slightly garnet rim; medium+ viscosity with no staining of the tears. On the nose, youthful with a pleasant mix of red and black fruits: bright Morello cherry, strawberries, raspberries, Marionberries, pomegranate, roses, dried herbs, tar, orange peel and dry gravelly earth. On the palate, bone dry with high tannin and medium+ acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is long with a touch of anise and red rope licorice thing. Just lovely and definitely a producer I'll be following. Drink now with some patience and over the next 20 years. Fewer than 4000, 750ml bottles were produced.   — 2 years ago

Tenuta di Renieri – Chianti Classico 2022
Castelnuovo Berardenga, Tuscany 🇮🇹
Overview
A traditionally styled Chianti Classico, this wine highlights the Sangiovese grape in its most authentic form. From the Berardenga subzone, known for producing some of the boldest and most structured Chianti Classico wines, this bottle remains refreshingly approachable while carrying the DOCG pedigree.
Aromas & Flavors
Vibrant red cherries, ripe cranberries, and a touch of dried herbs meet subtle notes of violet and a whisper of earthy spice.
Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied with silky tannins and a lively acidity that keeps the fruit bright and the finish fresh. Straightforward but elegant, perfect for everyday Chianti enjoyment.
Food Pairings
Margherita pizza, tomato-based pasta dishes, roasted chicken with rosemary, and Pecorino Toscano.
Verdict
A lovely, cherry-driven Chianti Classico that balances tradition with easy drinkability. Berardenga’s terroir lends just enough structure to give depth, while still offering immediate charm in the glass.
Did You Know?
Chianti Classico wines are marked by the iconic black rooster (Gallo Nero) seal on the neck, symbolizing wines from the historic heart of the Chianti region. — 4 days ago
Preis: $45.- — 4 months ago
Had at the Jencks and was very good — 10 months ago
1 of the best sauvignon blanc examples — 2 months ago
Had this one with homemade Margherita pizzas. Delicious pairing! Great value from Trader Joe’s for like $9. — 4 months ago

This was lovely! We fried some zucchini blossoms and made a margherita pizza. The fresh acidity cut right through the richness of the fried food and the creamy mozzarella, and the herbal fruit brought out the best in the tomato sauce and fresh basil. Enjoy this wine! — 4 months ago
Excellent. — 2 years ago
farzad farzin
Earthy and light — 20 days ago