La Massa : Giorgio Primo 2020

This is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot and 10% Petit Verdot that ages partially in new oak (50% of the wine does) for 16 months. The Tenuta La Massa 2020 Giorgio Primo is darkly saturated in appearance with rich aromas of black fruit, spice and smoked tobacco. The wine is textured and quite opulent, especially in this warm vintage. It's also more accessible, even at this young age. Production is 11,500 bottles.

This shows intensity and richness on the nose with aromas of cassis, crushed blackberries and hints of cedar, tobacco, violets and graphite. It’s structured and focused on the palate, with a medium to full body. It shows depth and broad structure filled with firm, compact tannins that run the whole length of the wine. Very long. It is already very attractive from its fruit profile perspective, but the quality of its tannins and structure suggests long aging potential. Better after 2027.

The 2020 Giorgio Primo is fabulous. This is a rare vintage in which Cabernet Sauvignon takes the lead, and it does so in grand style. Frost took out 70% of the Merlot and most of the Sangiovese. In response to those dramatic events, Giampaolo Motta and his team turned out an absolutely brilliant wine. Blackberry, lavender, mint, dried herbs, mocha and a kiss of French oak all build in the glass. This exotic, full-throttle Panzano red is positively stunning. The blend is 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot and 10% Petit Verdot.

The decision to increase the proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon and reduce that of Merlot seems very appropriate in this warm year. Notes of blackcurrant are coupled with riper, yet not stewed, aromas. The wine is defined above all by its linearity and precise tannins that emerge from the mid-palate, providing solid support alongside the acidic structure. A balanced, expressive and persistent wine.