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A
list of First and Second Growth Super Tuscans
By John Fodera
Hi
all,
First,
a few comments. It seemed obvious to me that there was a strong
sentiment against including certain wines that have not proven
themselves with at least a 5 year track record.
I
needed to consider this as I too think it is important. Another
factor is that I would like to be able to add to these lists in
the future; but, barring any disaster in quality, never need to
worry about deleting from them.
These
lists are supposed to represent great wines. Wines that are great
in both mediocre and great vintages. It was said that "anyone
can make great wine in a year like 1990". With this sentiment,
I totally agree and have amended the lists accordingly.
Please,
let's not launch into endless debate about the lists. They are
a general guide and I think everyone here probably has a sentimental
favorite that is not on the list. These represent the cream of
the cream! I do not think I am making these decisions arbitrarily,
so I hope you'll view the list for what it is. Here they are:
both First and Second Growths.
First
Growths
Sangiovese
Based:
Montevertine
Le Pergole Torte
Antinori Tignanello
San Guisto a Rentananno Percarlo
Merlot
Based:
Tenuta
dell'Ornellaia Masseto
Castello di Ama Vigna L'Apparita
Cabernet
Based:
Tenuta
dell'Ornellaia Ornellaia
Castello dei Rampolla Sammarco
Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia
Antinori Solaia
Second
Growths
Sangiovese
Based:
Isole
e Olena Cepparello
Castello Banfi Summus
Fontodi Flaccionello
Felsina Fontalloro
Castello di Brolio Casalferro
Badia a Coltibuono Sangioveto
Cabernet
Based:
Tenuta
del Terricio Lupicaia
Fattoria Le Pupille Saffredi
Antinori Guado al Tasso
Col d'Orcia Olmaia
Avignonesi Grifi
That's
it! The remainder of the wines that were on the original list
are to be considered Third Growths. With more "vintage experience"
perhaps they can be added in the future. Perhaps some of the wines
left off will "break through" more in the future and warrant inclusion.
The important thing to remember, is that by no means does Third
Growth imply a sub-standard wine. It can still be excellent, but
just doesn't quite reach the heights of the others listed.
I
hope you enjoy the list!
John
Copyright
© John Fodera, February, 2000
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