The Busi Estate
The winery was founded in the 1700’s and has been operated by the Busi family since the 1800s. Grapes have been grown on the property since the 1400’s. The property is partially surrounded by the vineyards of Frescobaldi, in the heart of the Rufina zone where wine has been produced since the 15th century.
The farm also produces olive oil within the confines of the group Laudemio, which is olive oil that is extra virgin in quality, vintage date, and less than .02% acid (normal extra virgin is .05% acid).
Giovani Busi is the winemaker with the advice of internationally enologist Giacomo Tachis. The cellars date backt to the 12th century but equipped with the latest technology.
The Busi Vineyard
Total farm size 90 hectares (222.3 acres): 60 hectares of vines (148.2 acres), 25 hectares of olive trees. The vineyard surface is broken down as follow:
A. 50.5 ha Chianti Rufina
B. 8.0 ha Cabernet Sauvignon
C. 1.0 ha Chardonnay
D. 0.5 ha Merlot
Chianti Rufina, the smallest Chianti area, is located northeast of Florence on the sandy calcareous lower slopes of the Apennines. It is said to be "one of Tuscany's most priviliged vineyard areas where Chianti reaches heights of size and longevity rivalled only on privileged parts of Classico".
The Chianti Rufina vineyard is planted on clay, marl and calcareous soil with a large percentage of rocks stones for good drainage. The vines are an average of 10-25 years old.
Busi Chianti Rufina is made from 100% 100% Sangiovese
Fresh, fruity, with classic tart cherry.
Appearance: ruby-red in color.
Aroma: clean, floral notes.
Flavor: well structured and harmonic on the palate; easy drinking with a soft and lingering finish. Ageing potential: 10/15 years.
Adapts well to both light and more substantial dishes.
Producer Information: Villa Travignoli Travignoli, a name which literally means “Tra Vignoli” (between the vineyards), is located in the middle of Frescobaldi’s Nipozzano vineyard, in the heart of the Rufina zone. Aged six months in wood and six months in stainless steel. Pairs well with salamis, pastas, grilled or roasted meats, dishes flavored with mushrooms, or rosemary. Excellent with polenta dishes.
This is a single vineyard, from the parcel "El Nogal" located in the town of Mambrilla de Castrejon grown at 850 meters above sea level. (2750 feet).
A hillside of tinto fino vines red in the village of Mambrilla, a short distance from the winery. Uninterrupted views of the Duero, the wind stirring the airy branches of the large walnut tree that guards the vineyard. A place with a special gift. Its sandy, stony soils, a feeling of harmony and a special microclimate: everything seems to enhance the talent of its surroundings.
We have been vinifying the evocative grapes of this plot for the past few years to produce an endlessly charming wine. Overwhelming, powerful and exquisite. With a vitalising force.
Review:
Matthews Winery Columbia Valley Cuvee is made from 65% Merlot, 27% Cabernet Franc, 8% Malbec.
The 2021 Columbia Valley Cuvée sparkles with purple and deep garnet in the glass. Meadow flowers, fresh red berry, black plum, and cocoa powder aromas exhilarate leading to flavors of morello cherry liqueur, cardamom, mountain blackberry, and licorice snaps. This merlot-dominant blend is plush and weighty on the palate with powdery tannins. Dark stone fruits and dusty minerality coat the palate for a long, seamless finish.
Reviews:
A handsome blend, structured and polished, with expressive black cherry flavors accented by tarragon, mocha espresso and toasty spices that sail toward refined tannins. Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. Drink now through 2031.
-Wine Spectator 93 Points
This Merlot-based blend is a part of the Matthews tradition. Wildly fruity aromatics with whole berries, destemmed aromas driven by red berries, mountain blueberries, and a touch of green peppercorn and mocha dust. A streak of graphite underlines red berries, early season blackberries and a savoury herbal character that mingles complexity with fresh ripe fruits.
-Decanter 93 Points