My latest Matthiassons arrived ystrday, so cracked:
1. Matthiasson Refosco MatthiassonVnyd/NapaVlly (12.6%) 2015: Med.dark color; very strong Refosk/black cherry/cola/blackberry/spicy light licorice slight pencilly/oak loads of bright Refosk fruit lovely nose; fairly tart bright/Refosk/black cherry cola/blackberry/very spicy slight licorice/pungent light pencilly/oak lovely flavor w/ light tangy/brisk tannins; very long/lingering rather tart strong bright/Refosck/black cherry cola/blackberry/slight licorice light pencilly/oak finish w/ modest tangy tannins; not as rich/lush/earthy as a Friuli Refosco but loaded w/ bright Refosco fruit; can use 2-6 yrs of age; quite attractive rendition of Refosco. $45.00
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A wee BloodyPulpit:
1. I really like what Steve is doing w/ Friulian varieties, especially his Refosco & Schioppettino. From the 12.6% alcohol, I was expecting a somewhat lean/eviscerated red. It was not, but still in Steve's style which I would describe as "slender", but seldom rich/lush. But it shows that you can get plenty of flavor w/ wines that are not high in alcohol. This is a wine that would show well in Friuli next time I go.
Tom