Whenever I’m out to dinner with friends, it’s a great time to try a different wine. By sharing wine this way, I’m able to garner others thoughts and opinions about a chosen wine. The bonus is that its great fun for all involved, and they usually can’t wait to see what I write about our discovery. Such was the case with the Italian wine Co di Sasso Cabernet Sauvignon & Sangiovese. It was fun a wine to share with friends.
Co di Sasso Cabernet Sauvignon & Sangiovese
Castello Banfi Co di Sasso Cabernet Sauvignon & Sangiovese is one of the best known and appreciated of the Banfi labels. Obviously it’s a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese. Col di Sasso means or translates in to “Stony Hill”. The name comes from the fact the Castello Banfi Estate Winery is mostly rocky and has imposing and impervious slopes in Montalcino, Italy.
When the Mariani Family found the property, most of the land was covered with dense forest and wild brush. They saw the potential and knew it was exactly what they had been searching for. The climate and soil were ideal for the cultivation of the many grape varieties they wanted to grow. The fact that it was in a region of Italy that already had a tradition of quality winemaking was a plus.
Shortly after the purchase the Montalcino property an adjacent estate also became available. After combining the two properties, they then renamed the new estate to Castello Banfi Estate. The land was planted with wine grape vines in only a few areas. The remaining available land was planted with corn and olives. The stunning 11th-century castle located on the property was restored and converted into a beautiful spa resort that many visit and enjoy today.
The Mariani family credits education, dedication and discipline to their success. They have received many honors over the years. Some of which are:
- First Winery in the World Recognized for Exceptional Environmental, Social & Ethical Responsibility & Leadership in Customer Satisfaction.
- ASSOCIATION ITALIAN SOMMELIERS – 2010 Wine Oscar Pioneering Italian Winemaking, Environmental Respect & Territory Enrichment.
- VINITALY Nation Award ~ Best Italian Winery ~ 12 years Gran Premio for Dedication to Excellence – Leading Ambassador for “Made in Italy.”
For the Mariani family, they are the proudest of all the praise they have received from their neighboring vintners. The local vintners are especially proud of the fact that Castello Banfi Estates was the winery/winemaker who brought world attention to Montalcino.
This is what the winemaker has to say about their Co di Sasso Cabernet Sauvignon & Sangiovese 2011:
“The color is a ruby red, young, but intense. Bouquet: fresh, varietal, enriched with spicy notes. Taste: full and soft, balanced, easy-to-drink.
One of the best known and appreciated Banfi labels in the world, Col di Sasso translates to mean “Stony Hill”, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese cultivated on the most rocky and impervious slopes of the Banfi estate in Montalcino. The perfect marriage between these two grapes gives birth to a youthful yet concentrated and extremely fruity red wine. It is an excellent match for white meats and light main courses.”
You can find Co di Sasso Cabernet Sauvignon & Sangiovese at totalwines.com, amazon.com, bevmo.com, CostPlus/World Market and many good wine purveyors. Enjoy.
Co di Sasso Cabernet Sauvignon & Sangiovese is a fun wine to share when you’re with family and friends. We especially enjoyed it with our light pasta entree. In a small way, it helped transport us to Tuscany for just a few moments.
Time for a glass…
If you enjoyed reading about “Co di Sasso Cabernet Sauvignon & Sangiovese,” check out Robert Mondavi Winery Wine Trio, BV Coastal Cabernet Sauvignon, and Twisted River Winery Primitivo.