Freddy R. Troya

9.4

Piaggia Carmignano Riserva 2021
Carmignano DOCG – Tuscany – Italy 🇮🇹

Overview
A compelling Tuscan blend composed primarily of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc, crafted by Piaggia, one of Carmignano’s benchmark estates, recognized for low yields, concentration, and precision-driven winemaking while preserving regional identity. The 2021 vintage beautifully captures the structured, terroir-focused soul of Carmignano without leaning into excessive ripeness or modern exaggeration.

Aromas & Flavors
Black cherry, ripe plum, dried herbs, tobacco leaf, cedar, earthy undertones, and subtle graphite unfold with remarkable balance and restraint. Dark fruit remains fresh and vibrant rather than jammy, allowing savory and mineral nuances to shine through.

Mouthfeel
Medium+ bodied with elevated tension, polished yet firm tannins, and beautifully integrated acidity. Structured and intentional, carrying both power and elegance through a long, refined finish.

Food Pairings
Excellent with bistecca alla Fiorentina, grilled lamb chops, wild boar ragù, roasted meats, or aged cheeses such as Pecorino Toscano or Parmigiano Reggiano.

Verdict
A serious and historically compelling Tuscan red that feels refreshingly authentic in a world often dominated by overhyped “Super Tuscans.” Piaggia delivers structure, terroir expression, and sophistication without sacrificing regional character. This is Tuscany speaking fluently through discipline and balance rather than sheer opulence.

Did You Know?
Long before the “Super Tuscan” movement emerged, Carmignano producers were already legally blending Sangiovese with Cabernet Sauvignon as far back as the 1700s, after Cabernet vines were introduced to Tuscany under the Medici family. In many ways, Carmignano quietly pioneered the concept centuries earlier.

🍷 Personal Pick
This is exactly the kind of under-the-radar Tuscan wine that rewards drinkers looking beyond prestige labels and chasing authenticity, structure, and historical soul instead. Cheers! — 10 days ago

Daron Watson

8.9

So def crunchy black & red fruits w tea, root, and near licorice ~ I did NOT feel this paired well w red sauce or pizza ~ I would like to try w cured meats & Gorgonzola dishes... — 5 years ago

Victoria L

9.1

Nice dry , Will get it again — 9 months ago

Stuart Dershaw

9.4

Medici Chaine dinner with florentine beef. Wow — a year ago

DCH

9.2

Holding up great with age. — 4 years ago

Chad Henderson

9.1

Taste like a mixer 50% red wine 50% sparkling wine. Super drinkable with a bubbly feel, grape skins and sour cherries. Nice blend. — 5 years ago

with Kristen

MysticMtnMama

10

Great dessert wine! — a year ago

Rick Phillips

9.0

First tasted at her cooking class. Delightful experience & awesome wine. — 3 years ago

with Letha

Peter Quinsey

9.2

Super fun in the fizzy sun — 5 years ago

with Karen

Chad Henderson

9.1

Nose is bubbly cherries. Taste is fun, effervescent with strawberry and dry finish. This would trick the heck out of someone. Looks like a heavy red wine, but taste like a sparkling. Revival Market virtual event with Alessandro Medici from Italy. — 5 years ago

with Kristen