Wines Tuscany San Felice - Il Griggio - 2019

Viniou Reviews

San Felice’s Il Griggio 2019, classified as a Toscana IGT, is a red blend representative of the creative freedom allowed by this designation. Though information on the precise varietal composition is scarce, Toscana IGT wines typically integrate Sangiovese—a staple of the region—for its bright acidity and cherry notes, along with international grapes like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, imparting structure, dark fruit, and smoothness. The 2019 vintage benefited from a temperate year, which enabled steady, balanced ripening. San Felice’s expertise in both traditional and contemporary winemaking ensures optimal fruit expression and approachable tannins, most likely through careful temperature-controlled fermentation and a period of aging in a mix of stainless steel and oak barrels to balance freshness and complexity.

Tuscany, in central Italy, is famed for its picturesque hills, myriad microclimates, and diverse soils, ranging from galestro (friable, schistous clay) to alberese (limestone-based). These soils, combined with the region’s Mediterranean climate—warm summers, mild winters, and pronounced diurnal temperature variations—provide ideal conditions for growing grapes with intensity and depth. Historically, Tuscany has been at the heart of Italian viticulture since Etruscan times, but in recent decades, the Toscana IGT category has allowed winemakers the flexibility to innovate outside the strict rules of traditional appellations, contributing to the rise of the so-called “Super Tuscans.”

This vibrant, versatile wine is a natural partner for classic Tuscan fare. You might consider pairing it with a bistecca alla Fiorentina, where its acidity will cut through the succulent steak. Rich tomato-based pasta dishes—such as pappardelle al ragù—or aged pecorino cheeses will also harmonise with its robust profile. For a more local touch, try it alongside wild boar stew or grilled vegetables drizzled with Tuscan olive oil.

For the most pleasurable tasting experience, serve San Felice Il Griggio 2019 at around 16-18°C. Decanting for half an hour will help the bouquet to unfurl, revealing the wine’s full aromatic and textural complexity. This is a wine best enjoyed in good company over a leisurely meal, where its multifaceted character will shine.