In these tough economic times everyone is looking for more value for their dollar and wine is no exception. There are a TON of wines out there under $10 and many of them are quite good, I am actually working on an article for a local newspaper on 5 good wines under $10. But finding a GREAT wine in the $10 range is harder but definitely attainable, enter the 2005 Santa Martina Toscana Rosso. At $11.50 (less on the internet) this IGT certified blend of 40% Sangiovese, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and 20% Syrah gives you plenty of bang for your buck. Unfortunately I can’t find any web presence for the wine other than retail so I don’t have any more detail on the wine.
My Tasting Notes –
Nose – barnyard, earth, raspberry, cedar
Taste – “barny”, dusty, red currant
Mouthfeel – medium body, ripe acidity and full leathery tannins
Finish – long with red fruit flavors
We had this with tofu parmesan topped with a light tomato sauce and a side of sauteed asparagus. It paired very well, with the acidity in the wine really complimenting the acidity in the tomato sauce. Although the tannins were good and leathery they weren’t overpowering and the combination of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses helped to smooth them out. I had heard good things about this wine but I didn’t expect it to have so many layers of red fruit and good funky earthiness and a complex mouthfeel, I was very impressed. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative to Chianti or Super Tuscans check this out, it seems to have a good distribution so you shouldn’t have trouble finding it.
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