The Wine of the Week: Vignamaggio IGT Toscana 2001

Easter, at least in Italy, is an occasion for lamb or kid, and though there are people who buy chops and fry them, it's much more likely to be a leg, roasted, or a stew of some kind. In other words, rich, flavorful dishes that beg a big red wine with rich fruit that will stand up to the meat's flavors, and tannins and acidity to balance its succulence. Vignamaggio, a winery near Greve in Chianti where Monna Lisa (the Monna Lisa) is said to have lived, makes a Cabernet Sauvignon that will work very well in this sort of situation.

It's called Vignamaggio, and the 2001 vintage is deep pigeon blood ruby with ruby reflections and rim. The bouquet is powerful and quite young, with forest berry fruit and some stewed pepper overtones supported by clean spice; there's a lot going on and it is quite promising, though very obviously young. On the palate it's full and rich, with powerful forest berry fruit that gains direction from deft acidity and graphite minerality, and is supported by clean bitter tannins with clean pepper notes. Quite elegant, though one feels almost like a peeping tom to be drinking it now; it will do very interesting things over the next 5-8 years, and will richly reward those with the patience to give it time. Drink it with succulent grilled meats or stews now, or with slightly leaner meats with time.

Castello di Monna Lisa, Vignamaggio's Chianti Classico Riserva, will also be quite nice with lamb.
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