Classic Chianti & Rioja

A Mixed Case of Two Classics – Chianti and Rioja!

We have recently come across two wonderful examples of classic red wines – one a beautiful, soft, easy-drinking Chianti and the other an elegant, fruit-driven Rioja Reserva. They both share the common feature of being fruit-driven. Oak is used in their vinification, but unlike wines of the past from these regions it doesn’t dominate the palate but simply improves the structure of the wine. We have put the two together in a mixed case, as excellent examples of a modern take on classic wines.

Enjoy 6 bottles of each wine in our mixed case offer. We hope you enjoy them as much as we have!

Prunatelli, Chianti Rufina

Tuscany has always been famous for Chianti, and in the past twenty-five years there has been a quantum leap in quality, that means the very best wines from Tuscany compete with the best from Bordeaux and Burgundy. Regrettably this comes at a price and although the days of the raffia-covered Chianti flask containing a pale red vinegary wine are best forgotten, it is extremely difficult to find affordable fruity Chianti to enjoy with pasta or a pizza. The Classico region is the area most consumers are familiar with, and because of its fame, Chianti Classico wines command a higher price. However, if you venture a little further afield there are other Chianti regions - in the hills just east of Florence the Rufina zone is located. It is here that there are some marvellous bargains to be found. The wines are less elegant and perhaps a little rustic in comparison with those from the Classico region.

Gianfranco Grati and his family own over 100 hectares of vineyards spread over three different estate, including Prunatelli, which is the hilly Rufina zone east of Florence.

Prunatelli Chianti Rufina 2007 £6.95 DOCG Chianti Rufina This is made from 85% Sangiovese, 8% Canaiolo and 7% Colorino 7%, which has a short period of oak ageing. It is youthful medium/deep colour with a very attractive cherry nose, while on the palate it is bursting with youthful, vibrant plum and cherry flavours. There is a mellow finish with hints of vanilla and spice.

Perfect with pasta or meat dishes, this is deliciously soft and fruity with all the character you could wish for from simple Chianti at an excellent price!

Bodegas Muriel, Rioja Alavesa

Bodegas Muriel was originally founded in 1926. It is located next to the town of Elciego in the heart of the Rioja Alavesa region, situated close to the River Mayor.

Julian Murua subsequently revitalized the winery in 1986, when he discovered his parents’ original wine cellar. These classic wines dating back to 1926, revealed Bodegas Muriel’s traditional history and style. This allowed Julian to refocus the winery’s production to reflect this heritage. Bodegas Muriel’s wines are carefully produced in homage to these classic early 20^th century wines from the Rioja Alavesa DOC and yet they reflect a modernity that makes them very accessible to contemporary wine enthusiasts.

Vina Muriel Reserva 2005 £6.95 Rioja Alavesa This is made from 90% Tempranillo and 10% Viura (a white grape variety). All the grapes are de-stemmed and fermented using indigenous yeasts in stainless steel, followed by an extended maceration for 15 days to extract more colour and fruit, while avoiding harsh tannins. It is then aged in both French and American oak for a minimum of 24 months before being aged for a further two years before release.

The results are superb – it has a deep colour, with a hint of mahogany at the rim, a nose of intense ripe fruit and subtle oak, which leads to a mouthful of soft, ripe blueberry and cherry flavours with soft tannins and fresh acidity at the finish. This is drinking superbly now but will keep well for another five years. I found the Reserva 2004 originally at the Coop for £7.99, which I thought was a bargain, making the excellent 2005 vintage a steal now!

Mixed Case Price for 6 bottles of each wine : £83.40

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