Tolaini Al Passo Toscana IGT, Tuscany, Italy

A deep, resonant pour opens with warmth and quiet confidence, where dark fruit and spice set a deliberate, composed tone. 2021 Tolaini Al Passo Toscana IGT moves with precision and generosity, revealing a wine shaped by meticulous care, balance, and a clearly articulated vision.

Product Details:

• Owner: Pier Luigi Tolaini
• Consulting Winemaker: Michel Rolland
• Winemaking Team: Tolaini Estate Winemaking Team
• Grape Composition: Sangiovese 34%, Merlot 33%, Cabernet Sauvignon 33%
• ABV: 14.5%
• Farming: Certified Organic, Carbon Neutral

Sensory Description:

Spiced oak rises first, layered over vivid aromas of cherry, cassis, and mixed berries. The palate shows clarity and harmony, with Sangiovese providing structure and lift, Merlot contributing roundness and polish, and Cabernet Sauvignon adding depth and resonance. Flavors of dried cherry, raspberry, tobacco, cedar, and subtle licorice unfold over fine-grained tannins and bright acidity. The finish is poised and slightly austere, lingering with mineral tension, savory complexity, and refined balance.

Awards & Accolades:

• 94 Points: Vinous (2021)
• 91 Points: James Suckling (2021)
• 91 Points: Wine Spectator (2021)

Winemaking Background:

Tolaini is guided by founder Pier Luigi Tolaini, whose uncompromising pursuit of quality defines the estate’s philosophy. Winemaking is overseen by the Tolaini estate team in close collaboration with consulting winemaker Michel Rolland, whose influence emphasizes balance, precision, and textural refinement. Vineyard parcels are farmed organically and harvested selectively, followed by optical grape sorting and parcel-specific vinification. Fermentation and aging employ a combination of stainless steel tanks, French oak fermenters, and barriques, allowing each varietal component to mature independently before blending. The estate’s carbon-neutral certification underscores a long-term commitment to sustainability, site expression, and longevity.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at approximately 60 to 64 degrees Fahrenheit in a large-bowled red wine glass to encourage full aromatic expression. Decanting is recommended, particularly in its youth. Pair with grilled lamb, braised meats, mushroom-driven dishes, or aged hard cheeses to complement the wine’s structure, savory nuance, and layered fruit profile.