
90POINTS
16½/20







Villa Delia Bambolo 1997
Bolgheri, Tuscany, ItalyBambolo is a unique mix of 40/40/10/10 sangiovese / cabernet sauvignon / merlot / pinot noir all grown at the 22-hectare Villa Delia estate. Taking its cue from its name, Bambolo exhibits a "youthful exuberance" on the nose and palate and it appears to take full advantage of the generous 1997 vintage, the best harvest in Tuscany since 1990. Unfortunately few if any will see this wine unless you happen to be in Italy. Rich, round, ripe tannins are at the centre of Bambolo's construction not unlike its nearby coastal cousins at Bolgheri and Groseto. The bouquet opens with a predictable vanilla scent from the new French oak barrels it spends 9 months ageing inside. There's a silky smooth texture in the mouth packed with plummy, blackberry and anise fruit. It's delicious and when I asked Umberto what food he would serve alongside his wine he smiled and said any of the following "wild boar, duck with olives in red wine sauce or maybe grilled eggplant, peppers, tomatoes and lamb chops." On its own with a piece of Pecorino cheese is how I pictured it.There's a silky smooth texture in the mouth packed with plummy, blackberry and anise fruit. It's delicious and when I asked owner Umberto Menghi what food he would serve alongside his wine he smiled and said any of the following "wild boar, duck with olives in red wine sauce or maybe grilled eggplant, peppers, tomatoes and lamb chops." On its own with a piece of Pecorino cheese is how I pictured it.Tasted: 29 December 2001Tasted by: Anthony GismondiPrices:BC | $49.95 | 750ml | Speculative - Mark Anthony Brands |
Blend: Sangiovese - Cabernet Sauvignon - Merlot - Pinot NoirCSPC: 708230UPC: 626990004899