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.

The 2017 Tua Rita Giusto di Notri is a remarkable red wine that exemplifies the expertise and craftsmanship of its winemakers. This wine, a proprietary blend, hails from the esteemed region of Tuscany, Italy, and showcases the best qualities of the Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot grapes.

In the glass, this wine displays a deep, rich red color that hints at its intensity and complexity. With an alcohol content of 15.0%, it promises a full-bodied experience that will captivate the senses.

The bouquet of the 2017 Giusto di Notri is truly stunning, offering a symphony of aromas that entice and intrigue. The nose is greeted by dark fruit notes, such as blackcurrant and blackberry, which are complemented by hints of graphite, violet, and cinnamon. These aromas create a layered and captivating profile that is both enticing and refined.

On the palate, this wine reveals its true character. It is chiseled, sharp, and focused, with a tight, disciplined linearity that showcases the winemakers' skill and precision. The small percentage of Merlot contributes a touch of sweetness, while the Cabernet Franc adds power, freshness, and dark fruit flavors. The starring role of Cabernet Sauvignon ensures plushness and depth, while a lasting mineral note of chalk or limestone frames the opulent fruit at its core.

The 2017 Giusto di Notri is a wine that treads lightly on the palate, displaying an elegant and nuanced approach. Despite being produced in a hot vintage, the winemaking team at Tua Rita has managed to create a wine that maintains balance and finesse.

This wine has received high praise from critics, with Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarding it a score of 96, and James Suckling giving it the same impressive score. Decanter rates it at 92, while Vinous awards it 93 points. Jeb Dunnuck also recognizes its excellence, with a score of 95.

Overall, the 2017 Tua Rita Giusto di Notri is a wine of substance and depth, offering a remarkable drinking experience. It celebrates its 25th anniversary with style and grace, and is a testament to the winemaking prowess of Tua Rita. While it can be enjoyed now, it will continue to develop and evolve over the next 10-15 years. This wine is truly a masterpiece.