Red wine | Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy
Discover the essence of the Tuscan coast with the Donna Olimpia 1898 Bolgheri Rosso, a wine that beautifully captures the prestige of the Bolgheri DOC. Born from the intuition of Guido Folonari, this estate is steeped in history, named in 1898 to commemorate the silver wedding anniversary of Princess Olimpia Alliata and Gherardo della Gherardesca. This blend of classic Bordeaux varieties—Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc—thrives in the unique terroir of the Maremma, where warm coastal temperatures and gravelly, silt-rich soils allow for perfect grape maturation.
In the glass, it reveals an intense ruby red color with vibrant purple highlights. The bouquet is sophisticated and expansive, offering a clean, enticing aroma of blackberries, blueberries, and cinnamon, perfectly complemented by deeper notes of chocolate, mocha, and a subtle touch of Mediterranean rosemary. On the palate, the wine is exceptionally well-structured and harmonious. It strikes a masterclass balance between its bold, powerful nature and a soft, velvety texture, supported by refined tannins that provide a sophisticated mouthfeel. The finish is remarkably long, echoing with notes of lingering jammy fruits and a gentle warmth characteristic of the Bolgheri region.
This wine is a superb choice for food pairing. Its structure and complexity make it an ideal companion for traditional Italian cuisine. Enjoy it alongside rich meat dishes such as wild boar ragù, beef or venison stews, or grilled red meats. It also pairs wonderfully with hearty mushroom-based pasta dishes, artisanal terrines, or game birds like duck or guinea fowl. Whether you are hosting an elegant dinner party or celebrating a special moment, the Donna Olimpia 1898 Bolgheri Rosso brings a genuine piece of the Italian sun and heritage to your table. Its ability to age gracefully over the next few years makes it not just a wine for today, but a rewarding addition to any collector's cellar.
A departure from my usual crisp whites, but this Bolgheri is stunningly velvety. Dark berries and mocha richness; it demands a hearty pappardelle with wild boar ragù. Truly elegant stuff.