Supremus Toscana IGT 2016

The Supremus’ winemaking team is led by Franco Bernabei, the world-class oncologist who has served as consultant to several of the most prestigious estates in Italy. The majority of his projects at Folonari, Felsina, Fontodi or Sartori are offered at prices far beyond today’s price tag though they’re all critically-acclaimed Tuscan gems, and a testament to the mastery of his craft.

For the Supremus project, Bernabei partnered directly with Italian Wine Importer extraordinaire Neil Empson for Direct Import. Select vineyard sites were chosen from Maremma, Colline Pisane, and Colli Fiorentini. The vineyards are quite mature – over 25 years old and almost all over 1,000 feet in elevation.

Today’s 2016 Supremus Toscana is an under-$30 Tuscan knockout, a 94-point home run of a wine. James Suckling – in his 94 point review notes that it’s “Wonderfully silky and juicy with an abundance of freshly crushed berries. Very fine. One of the finest wines they have made.”

I concur. Deep Crimson in color, with bright red fruits, crushed blueberries and violets, and topped off with a finish that won’t quit. Only 500 cases were made total. A mere ¼ of that made it Stateside. Drink now or throw it in the cellar for another 5 to 10 years.