2009 Pizzini Sangiovese Shiraz
King Valley, Victoria
With the weather having that definite Autumnal feel, it is time to enjoy the late summer harvest and this is a wine from a family winery that has remained true to their Northern Italian heritage. Sangiovese is just one of the Italian varietals/styles that the King Valley in Victoria is rapidly becoming known for. There is also well deserved excitement around the valley’s zippy Proseccos, elegant Pinot Grigios and Nebbiolos that might just give their Northern Italian counterparts some powerful competition.
The combination of Sangiovese with Shiraz is a fine marriage of cultures. Here is purity of fruit with some savoury earthiness and edges of smoky charcuterie to keep the marriage fresh and interesting. Silky and firm without spilling into full body territory, this is a wine that has been crafted to be unashamedly enjoyed with food – the other Pizzini family passion.
It will be no surprise that this is but one of the Sangiovese wines made by Pizzini. They also have a pure and fresh straight Sangiovese, the varietal forms part of their unusual and remarkable ‘Il Barone’ blend, plus there is the formidable ‘Rubacuoni’ made from the Brunello clone.
I cannot help thinking that traditional Italian fare would be ideal for this wine, but if you were looking for something a little different – wild boar sausages with roasted Autumn vegetables would also be a suitable partner.
Distribution: Cellar Door and selected wine stores
Value: $19.50
© Lisa Johnston April 2011
Wine Diva Wines of the Month, May 2011
