It’s tradition among my friends for each of us to bring a bottle of wine when we gather. The anticipation is sometimes explosive since we’re all wine lovers with worthy palates. And while I rarely know what’s coming, I always know it’ll be memorable.
Today was no exception. Our adventure spanned two continents exploring the sensational flavors of Italy through the Castello dei Rampolla Sammarco 2016, and the charm of California ushered in by the Sandhi Anika Syrah 2021.
Our first stop was the rolling hills of Tuscany, home to the renowned Castello dei Rampolla winery. Their Sammarco 2016, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sangiovese, is a testament to the winery’s commitment to organic and biodynamic practices.
The Sammarco 2016 greets you with its deep, ruby red hue. On the nose, it’s a bouquet of ripe black fruits, mingled with enticing spice and a hint of earthiness – a true reflection of the Tuscan terroir. Once on the palate, the wine truly shines. The black fruit and spice notes are enveloped in a lush, velvety mouthfeel, while the tannins, although still young, are well-integrated and promise excellent aging potential. The finish is long and lingering, leaving you yearning for more.
From the sunny slopes of Tuscany, we journey to the cool climate vineyards of California with the Sandhi Anika Syrah 2021. Sandhi Wines, a collaboration between Rajat Parr, Sashi Moorman, and Steve Webster, is known for their minimalist approach, letting the grapes and terroir speak for themselves.
The Anika Syrah 2021 is a brilliant ruby in the glass. The nose is elegant, with bright cherry, white pepper, and a hint of floral notes. On the palate, this wine dances with its vibrant acidity and freshness. The cherry and pepper flavors are well-balanced, and the wine has a lightness that beautifully contrasts with the intensity of the Sammarco. The finish is clean and smooth, making for an incredibly enjoyable drinking experience.
These two wines, although vastly different in their style and provenance, both offer exceptional tasting experiences. The Sammarco 2016, with its intensity and complexity, and the Anika Syrah 2021, with its freshness and elegance, are both excellent additions to any gathering.
So, next time you rendezvous with friends, why not start your own tradition and turn it into a wine-dezvous. Till then, happy tasting!
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