Grapelive Wine of the Day
By Kerry Winslow
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2008 Casale del Giglio, Shiraz (Syrah) Lazio IGT Rosso, Italy.
This big and fruit driven Syrah comes from the western edge of Lazio, north of Rome and gains from the coastal influence that this unique terroir gets and gives it nice acidity to balance the bold flavors. Casale planted many international varietals here with Syrah and Petit Verdot doing exceptionally well, along with Chardonnay and Viognier, plus Merlot and Cabernet, they do have Sangivese and other Italian grapes as well, but it is the transplants that seems just that bit more remarkable. Casale regularly gets high praise for the quality of their wines, and I have not had a single wine from this winery that did not impress, but the Syrah based wines just have that something extra, like this fine and rich Shiraz. The nose is earthy and spice laced with a touch of perfumey violets and blackberry jam, leading to a palate that delivers the promise of the nose and gives deep dark fruits and a heady thick texture. There are layers of boysenberry, cassis, bitter chocolate, intense melted licorice, warm stones and a hint of game. While this is no question a modern and ripe wine, it still has many old world charms and it is a steal at this price.
($20 Est.) 92 Points, grapelive
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