Summary:

From their genesis in the late 1960s to their most modern iterations, Super Tuscans have enjoyed an uninterrupted reign on the international scene. Initially, production style trumped terroir, but now, thanks to viticultural improvements combined with the effects of climate change, we see the evolution of one winemaker’s initial hunch into a family of world-class wines. Characterised by their Bordeaux influences and divergence from traditional Italian winemaking, the evolution of the Super Tuscan movement continues to this day. 

About the Speaker:

Vintage 1984, Gabriele Gorelli MW is one of Italy's most esteemed wine experts. Born and raised in Montalcino, Tuscany, in February 2021, he became the first Italian Master of Wine. His passion for wine formed thanks to his paternal grandfather, once the smallest producer of Brunello di Montalcino. After linguistic studies, he gained a long experience in the visual communication of wine. In 2015 he co-founded KH Wines, which deals with strategic consultancy for high-level brands. Gabriele speaks English and French and has a basic knowledge of German. Avid traveller, trail runner and Ashtanga Yoga practitioner. Today Gabriele is Worldwide Faculty Ambassador for Fondazione Banfi, Brand Ambassador for Vinventions and Golden Vines Ambassador for Italy.

Timestamps:

The history of Super Tuscans (00:01)
Gabriele discusses the genesis, inception, and pillars of Super Tuscans, emphasizing their evolution into a classic innovation.

Background of winemaking in Italy (00:02)
Gabriele explains the context of winemaking in Italy 60-70 years ago, focusing on promiscuous vineyards, high yields, and the commodity view of wine.

Evolution of winemaking in Tuscany (00:03)
Gabriele delves into the historical vineyard practices, the championing of wine production, and the impact of the sharecropping system on wine quality.

Regulation and innovation in Chianti Classico (00:10)
Gabriele details the history and regulations of Chianti Classico, including the experimentation with field blends and the introduction of white grapes.

Experimentation and international attention (00:22)
Gabriele discusses the experiments with Bordeaux varieties in Tuscany and the international press's attention, leading to the coining of the term "Super Tuscans."

The concept of Super Tuscans (00:26)
Discussion of the concept of Super Tuscans and how the market and press determine the status.

Establishment of IGT Toscana (00:28)
Exploration of the establishment of the IGT Toscana and the promotion of historical Super Tuscans.

Naming and labeling of Super Tuscans (00:28)
Insights into the lack of codification and classification of names on Super Tuscan labels and the trend of suffixes in wine names.

Market response and brand identity (00:34)
The importance of launching Super Tuscans to the market and the individual brand identity of each wine.

Production and community involvement (00:35)
Details about the production and community involvement in the creation of Super Tuscans.

Perception and market trends (00:45)
Discussion about the market trends and the power of the term "Super Tuscan" in the wine industry.

Resistance and evolution of Super Tuscans (00:48)
Insights into the resistance and evolution of Super Tuscans, including the use of non-indigenous grape varieties and the changing perceptions in the domestic market in Italy.

The history of Super Tuscans (00:52)
Discussion on the unique winemaking methods and their influence on wines like Brunello.

The main markets for Super Tuscans (00:53)
Exploration of the key markets and the impact of Super Tuscans on emerging markets.

Value for money of Super Tuscans (00:55)
Debate on the perception of Super Tuscans as good value despite their high prices.

Future topics and closing remarks (00:57)
Discussion on potential future webinars and a closing thank you message.