Tua Rita, one of Italy’s first successful producers of vins de garage, was founded by Rita Tua and her husband Virgilio in 1984. They started with just 2 hectares of vineyard which they tended with scrupulous care. As a result, their vineyard had grown to 9 hectares in barely a decade and today, Tua Rita farms some thirty hectares planted to vine.

Tua Rita’s vineyards are located in the Cornia valley near Suvereto in the High Tuscan Maremma, in an area known as Metalliferous Hills. The soil composition of pebbles and stones as well as clay, silt and sand, with a generous helping of mineral trace elements, leaves a distinctive mark on Tua Rita’s wines, imparting unique iron-like nuances to the aromatics and lending the palate a delicious hint of saltiness.

This leading Tuscan estate is known for their famous 100% Merlot, Redigaffi, which has gained cult status, receiving praise and accolades from wine enthusiasts and even a perfect 100 score from wine critic Robert Parker. Their range of wines also includes their signature wine, Giusto di Notri, which is a classic Bordeaux blend; Per Sempre, a single-variety Syrah; Perlato del Bosco, a varietal Sangiovese beginning with the 2011 vintage; Rosso dei Notri, an entry-level wine; Lodano, an experimental white wine; and Perlato del Bosco Bianco.

Tua Rita’s single-variety Merlot takes its name from a stream that runs near the estate. Redigaffi is a benchmark wine that has achieved cult status around the world. The 2000 vintage was the first wine from Italy to be awarded 100/100 by Robert Parker. Redigaffi features regularly in the catalogues of the world’s leading auctioneers, such as Christie’s and Sotheby’s, and is one of the few Italian wines included in the Liv-ex index.

The wine ages 18-20 months in new French oak barrels and then several months in bottle.

The 2015 Tua Rita Redigaffi is a remarkable red wine hailing from the prestigious region of Tuscany, Italy. With its impressive pedigree and exceptional quality, this wine is a shining example of the mastery of winemaking that Tua Rita is known for.

Pouring a deep, velvety red in the glass, the Redigaffi entices with its captivating aromas. The nose is filled with the enticing scents of ripe blackberries and fresh plums, intermingled with subtle hints of oyster shells, iodine, violets, and tobacco leaves. These complex aromas create a symphony of fragrances that captivate the senses.

On the palate, the Redigaffi reveals its true character. It is full-bodied, yet surprisingly elegant and light-footed. The wine dances gracefully on the tongue, showcasing its polished and velvety texture. Well-integrated tannins add structure and depth to the wine, providing a seamless and endless experience.

Renowned wine critic James Suckling awarded this vintage a perfect score of 100 points, praising its exceptional qualities. He notes the presence of chocolate and salted caramel flavors that complement the rich fruit notes. Suckling recommends enjoying this wine now or cellaring it for further development.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also praises the 2015 Redigaffi, describing it as exuberant and opulent. The wine showcases dark cherry fruit, baker's chocolate, and a soft lactic note. It envelops the palate with sweet tannins, toasted oak, and abundant textural richness. This beauty is still holding well and promises a delightful drinking experience.

Another notable review comes from Wine Spectator, which awards this vintage a score of 95 points. They describe the wine as lush and polished, with a cashmere-like texture. Flavors of vanilla, chocolate, black cherry, and plum intermingle harmoniously, hiding a solid underlying structure. They recommend decanting the wine now or cellaring it for optimal enjoyment between 2020 and 2032.

Decanter also hails the 2015 Redigaffi, highlighting its explosive nature and the exceptional quality of the vintage. They praise the crushed blackberry and wild bramble aromas, as well as the seductive smoothness on the palate. The wine showcases a rich, plump middle and a lovely blue plum, black fruited, smoky element with a hint of toasty oak. The fine tannins add complexity, while the slight dryness adds a touch of sophistication.

In conclusion, the 2015 Tua Rita Redigaffi is a truly exceptional wine that showcases the very best of Merlot from Tuscany. With its captivating aromas, elegant palate, and rave reviews from esteemed critics, this wine is a must-try for any wine enthusiast. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for further development, the Redigaffi promises an unforgettable experience.