Vermentino Nero IGT Toscana 'Forma Alta'

Score

92

"Made with ancient vines of Vermentino Nero and a small percentage of Massaretta (also called Barsaglina) planted between the late 1800s and early 1900s, with many vines still ungrafted, the 2018 Forma Alta has intriguing aromas of dog rose, hay, botanical herb and graphite. Aged in concrete vats for the Vermentino Nero and in used wood for Massaretta, it's smooth and savory, offering wild strawberry, orange rind, star anise and saline mineral notes alongside silky tannins. Drink through 2028. Abv: 14%"

Score

91

"The 2018 Forma Alta (85% Vermentino Nero, 15% Massaretta) is a gorgeous, complex wine. Dried flowers, mint, cedar, red cherry fruit, cedar and earthy notes are all laced together. Medium in body and persistent, with plenty of nuance, the 2018 is terrific choice for readers who want to venture outside more familiar wines. This is beautifully rendered."

Score

93

"A primarily sweet nose of strawberries, raspberries, pomegranates and guava draws balance from a dusting of wild herbs. On the palate, the herbaceousness grows and turns the fruitiness slightly bitter, as strawberry fruit leather and bitter orange stand their ground against imposing tannins, acid and spice. — Danielle Callegari"

Score

90

"A mix of plum, cherry, earth flavors and a saline component mark this fleshy, sapid red. It has intensity and is mellowing, with fine balance and a long finish. Drink now through 2026. 2,500 cases made, 900 cases imported.‡B.S."