Posted By Joel on March 17, 2010

La Braccesca Bramasole Cortona Syrah 2003, DOC

Old flannel shirts. Hands stained with drawing charcoal, pastels, shades of paint. The passion in her voice whenever she spoke of Degas.

But, that was all before life’s realities found us.

Now, I taste, spending a few moments in wine’s third dimension, memory, scents of innocent time with hints of longing, remembering that expressive artist I knew half a lifetime ago, reminded by the equally expressive character of La Braccesca’s Bramasole Cortona Syrah.

The La Braccesca estate is a property of Antinori with 238 hectares of vineyard laid out in two blocks around Italy’s Tuscany: 87 hectares in the area of Montepulciano, another 151 hectares stretching between there and the foothills of Cortona.

The foothills of Cortona have proven especially hospitable terroir to international varietals like Syrah.

La Braccesca Bramasole Cortona Syrah 2003 is made from 100% Syrah grown in medium clay soil at about 290m altitude. Grapes were soft pressed and given a longer-side maceration of 15 days. During 14 months in barrique (Allier & Troncois) the wine was racked several times, spending one additional year in bottle prior to release.

Tasting Notes / Impressions:

Deep ruby color. Ripe red and black berry aromas on the nose with hints of coffee, cocoa powder, vanilla and spice. Dense palate of rich, jammy fruit laced with chocolate and smooth, well integrated tannins. Firm structure and an elegant, persistent finish.

Food Pairing Suggestions:

MEAT: roasted red meat or game is a first choice – I’d recommend lamb or roast beef; PASTA: dressed in good olive oil, tossed with toasted bread crumbs and crumbled bacon; CHEESES: young-medium aged cheeses… I especially like this wine paired with softer French cheeses.

Categories: $$ ($25-$50), Tuscany, Wine
Tags: Syrah