Super Tuscans!

Join us at Altamirano's Italian Ristorante for a celebration of “Super Tuscans" - wines made by Italian winemakers” from grapes that are deemed traditionally French (think "Bordeaux" blends or Syrah). As most of you know, "Super Tuscans" are an unofficial category of Tuscan wines that emerged in the 1970s near Bolgheri as local winemakers wanted to get around overly restrictive appellation laws. These wines are typically rich, full-bodied, and dark-fruited (black cherry, blackberry, plum) with high acidity and soft tannins. The top Super Tuscan wines (e.g. Sassicaia) won wide acclaim from U.S. critics (hence the "super" prefix) - and are now prohibitively expensive.

On May 27th, we will be enjoying several more affordable, yet delicious, Super Tuscans, one white and four reds at this 8 person, 7pm event.

There will be 5 wines at this 8 person event.

Altamarino's is located on the corner of E. 78th Street and York Ave. Here is link to their menu.

Altamirano Italian Ristorante Menu

** The cost of this event is $57 and is for the cost of the wines.

NOTE: Meetup has started charging a "Partner Fee" that is above and in addition to the listed price of the event. It is annoying and confusing, but there is nothing I can do about it. It comes to approximately $4 more for each RSVP. You will see this charge when you complete your rsvp and pay for the event. MEETUP+ members are exempt from this charge.

Just a reminder of our usual rules:

You will also have to pay the cost of your food (plus 33% for tax and tip). You will be expected to order at least 2 dishes (an appetizer and a main, or main and dessert) to help support the restaurant.

Please read and understand the group's cancellation policy. If you take spot, then cancel, and no one else takes the spot, you will not receive a refund or credit. No refunds or credits will be given for no-shows or late cancellations (unless someone else takes your spot). All cancellations are subject to a $6 service fee.

The Wines (notes will be distributed at the dinner:

2023 Gaja Ca Marcanda Vistamare ($82). Grapes: Vermentino, Fiano, Viognier. JD (93-96) points, "Tasted as a barrel sample, the 2023 Vistamare is lifted and packed with aromas of citrus zest along with a floral bouquet of concentrated key lime, starfruit, sea spray, and loads of floral citrus blossom. Medium to full-bodied, with a bit of white pepper spice."

2019 Caiarossa Toscana ($74). Grapes: Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Sangiovese, Petit Verdot and Alicante. JR 18/20 points, "Everything about this wine is seamless. Gorgeous nose of oak, black fruit and cassis building a real unity. Velvet-like, cool and supple on the palate and effortlessly elegant while generous too. Stony, mineral fruit on the finish. This vintage comes close to the most prestigious of Bolgheri at a far more advantageous price tag."

2017 Tua Rita Giusto di Notri Toscana IGT ($70). Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot. JD 95 points, "An attractive mix of blackcurrant, blackberry, graphite, and violet emerge from the 2017 Giusto di Notri. It is full and long, with ripe fruit and tannins that flood through the mid-palate, followed by warming oak spices that perfume the finish. This plush and sunny wine is drinking beautifully now."

2015 Fattoria Le Pupille (Elisabetta Geppetti) Saffredi ($90). Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot. WA 96 points, "The 2015 Saffredi is a sultry and velvety wine from the Tuscan Coast. The textural richness is of the highest caliber, and the bouquet produces a long succession of black fruit, exotic spice and savory tobacco flavors. There's a touch of mocha chocolate and toasted espresso bean as well. The wine delivers great length and power."

2011 Le Macchiole Scrio Toscana IGT ($110). Grapes: Syrah. WA 96 points, "The 2011 Scrio is the vintage darling. The wine boasts abundant varietal character with black fruit and Morello cherry in center stage. Asian spice and barbecue smoke round off the edges and the wine delivers a lavish dose of crushed stone, soda, blue flower and smoked bacon as well. It stands tall with wide shoulders supported by finely etched tannins."