The Rising Star Has Risen 2007 Guado al Melo Arrives
Super Tuscan From 97 Point Vintage Looks To One Up Super Selling ‘06
Last year we were calling Bogheri Super Tuscan 2006 Guado al Melo the sleeper of the vintage after discovering it at Vin Italy. That was before massive sales of the wine from the 95 point 2006 vintage. Bolgheri has attracted Italy’s greatest winemakers. Antinori’s Ornellaia and della Rocchetta’s Sassicaia, most celebrated of all Super Tuscans, each selling for hundreds of dollars a bottle, are products of coastal Bolgheri’s temperate Mediterranean climate. One inside note: looking at economic conditions of the day, Guado stacked the deck in favour of bargain hunters, redirecting wine from its very expensive, higher end cuvees and runaway success ensued. Now comes vintage 2007, slightly richer than 2006, but equally structured and balanced, perfumed and refined. 2007 Guado al Melo, next door neighbor of Ornellaia, is no longer a sleeper. But it is the spot on ambassador for 2007, the Spectator 97 point vintage. Deep purplish red with intense, complex aromas of black fruits. The densely rich palate of red and black fresh berry fruit pours its lush currant, raspberry and lively spice flavours across the mouth. Mouthfeel is persistently bright, with good acidity and rich but balanced tannins typical of Sangiovese. Then the cashmere kicks in at finish underscoring the 2007 reputation for being more readily accessible than the preceding year. At our price of $19.99 2007 Guado al Melo is even money to surpass the massive appeal of its ’06 super selling sibling. This is one time when sibling rivalry is a great thing.

Tasting Notes: Deep, purplish red colour. Tremendous, complex bouquet of red and black fresh berry fruit balanced by oak nuances. The densely rich palate of red and black fresh berry fruit pours lush currant, raspberry,lively spice flavours across the mouth. Mouthfeel is persistently bright, with good acidity and rich but balanced tannins typical of Sangiovese. Supple tannins. Cashmere finish underscores readily accessible style of 2007 Bolgheri. 80% Sangiovese, 20% Syrah.