“If there is one estate that embodies the potential of Carmignano, Piaggia just might be it.” – Antonio Galloni

“the Piaggia winery of the Vannucci family has established itself as a reference of the denomination.” Gambero Rosso

“Carmignano is a wine that meets modern tastes, it tastes of Tuscany but has a cosmopolitan palate.” Silvia Vannucci, owner

Piaggia Il Sasso 2019

Sale $32.99

Buy three or more $29.99 – Both Prices are Best in NC!

93 pts Vinous 

Carmignano is an ancient growing region located in northern Tuscany not far from Pisa. Archaeological digs in the area have found Etruscan artifacts relating to wine production dating back over 3000 years. In the early 1800’s growers in Carmignano started to cultivate Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc alongside their native Sangiovese vines, producing the first “Super Tuscan” styled wines long before the craze caught on in Bolgheri and Maremma in the mid-20th century. But Carmignano is tiny, the entire region is planted with just 270 acres of vines, so most of these wines are consumed locally. Carmignano has stayed under the radar to many, and the best gems like this one are incredible values.  

Piaggia is one of the pillars of the region. Founder Mauro Vannucci purchased his first vineyards here in 1970, a 2.5 hectare plot from the historic Capezzana estate. Vannucci saw the huge potential of this region and these vines in particular, plantings of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot from Bordeaux’s first growth Château Lafite Rothschild! Today Mauro’s daughter Silvia oversees 15 hectares of vineyards, planted with massal selections of vines from her father’s original vineyard. This Il Sasso bottling is a stunner that captures the brilliance of the 2019 vintage in Tuscany. A blend of 70% old vine Sangiovese with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. I liken it to a top Super Tuscan, yet with more elegance and refinement. Using only two and three year old barriques for ageing the beauty of this region is allowed to shine. Wild berries, rose hip, and smoky earth tones leap enticingly from the glass. A rich, deeply textured palate follows, filled with ample reds fruits and spice. Round supple tannins give a luxurious mouthfeel and long fresh finish keeps you coming back for more. Irresistible now and it will cellar well for another 5-6 years.

“The 2019 Carmignano Il Sasso is flat-out stunning, lifting up with notes of spicy citrus offsetting sweet white smoke, raspberries, cherries and clove. This is silky-smooth and pliant, packed full of zesty red fruits and spices contrasted by cooling acidity. There’s so much to like here, finishing intensely fruity yet also remarkably fresh and long. Drink today or lose this over the medium term. It’s a “wow” wine and also a great value. Il Sasso is a blend of 70% Sangiovese, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that refines for one year in second and third-pass barriques.” – V


Or reply. The wine is available now in Chapel Hill. Friday, as ordered, in Hillsborough.